Matthew Hancock MP discusses education and entrepreneurship

Economist David Chivers weighs up the value of education

BBC education correspondent Sanchia Berg on schoolyard politics

June Stevenson receives a life lesson in the importance of teaching

THE EXETER COLLEGE MAGAZINE ISSUE 18 SUMMER 2015 WWW.EXETER.OX.AC.UK/ALUMNI

AN F FOR FAIRNESS?

Alan Bennett examines the private education system Editorial COLLEGE NEWS FEATURES A Learning Experience Rick Trainor | 3 Barriers to Entry Alan Bennett | 33 A Learning Exeter has entered its Building for the Future: Cohen Quad What Next for the Grammar School? eighth century and the Katrina Hancock | 6 Sanchia Berg | 36 exceptional 700th anniversary Showcasing Exeter’s Special Schools Failing Immigrant Pupils celebrations have formally Experience Collections Joanna Bowring | 8 Akshat Rathi | 38 come to a close. After Secular Churches and Holy Societies From Education to Entrepreneurship over a year of events, including royal Andrew Steane | 10 Matthew Hancock and Beatrice Natzler | 40 visits, unforgettable balls, and illustrious Closing the Circle Edward Elliott | 12 The Value of Education David Chivers | 43 Rector Rick Trainor finds his guest speakers, it is time to regroup and An Australian Odyssey The Implications of the General refocus. For Exon this means a return to first 10 months in post an exciting Rachael White | 14 Election on Higher Education the College’s core purpose: this year the William Morris Letters Uncovered Rick Trainor | 44 period of getting to know Exonians, magazine’s theme is education. Thomas Wilson | 15 Peace in the Negev Raymond Dwek | 46 In a controversial and personal review learning the College’s traditions Rocks Unearthed in Highland Fling Here Come the Girls of private education, Alan Bennett argues Rebecca Evans | 16 Charlotte Bannister-Parker | 48 and celebrating its successes. that to educate not according to ability Made in the USA Aideen Carroll | 18 Those Who Can, Teach but according to the social situation of the Breadth and Depth Kari Baker | 19 June Stevenson | 49 parents is both wrong and a waste. Sanchia Second Star to the Right Berg, the BBC’s education correspondent, ecoming Rector of Exeter has been an extraordinary and Straight On Till Morning reports from Kent, where many parents experience, quite apart from learning to pronounce Zoe Jackson | 20 FUNDRAISING are pressing for more selective schools. “sedulously” in the time-honoured promise I read out Rugby Sam Hillman | 22 B Economics lecturer David Chivers attempts Giving Something Back at the declaration ceremony in the Chapel on 1 October. Rowing Alice Rossignol | 23 to put a price on education – or at least Katrina Hancock | 50 That event formally inaugurated what have now been 10 Football Charlotte Cato | 23 explain why that is such a complex task. The Power of Regular Giving exciting months in post. I would characterise the period Sing from the Rooftop Rick Trainor is sworn in as Rector of Exeter College Matthew Hancock MP discusses the Katherine Fieldgate | 51 as above all a learning experience – appropriate to the Tim Muggeridge | 24 importance of education, soft skills and Something Old, Something New Education theme of this edition of Exon – getting to know redecoration and rewiring to occur. Having allowed us Connecting Exonians entrepreneurship. And Emeritus Fellow Tessa Stanley Price | 52 the people (near and far) of the Exeter family as well as the to participate in key events of the 700th anniversary Katherine Fieldgate | 24 Professor Raymond Dwek illustrates the “The Bestest Day Ever!" traditions and routines of a now 701-year-old institution. celebrations earlier in the year, Frances and Hamish very role education can play in building peace. Rory Sullivan | 54 Another course of rapid instruction has been appropriate kindly invited us to a dinner party on their final evening in Exeter’s “third quadrangle” is for the broader University, to which my wife Marguerite College. Thus we were eyewitnesses to their exceptionally UNIVERSITY NEWS progressing apace. It will house students, Dupree and I have returned after three and a half decades stylish exit, through an avenue of well-wishers sipping academics, teaching facilities, and the I ♥ New York Alex Doody | 25 ALUMNI in Cambridge, Glasgow and London. champagne and wielding sparklers, via the Broad Street College’s special collections. Joanna Vobis Gratulamur Ellen Brewster | 26 While still very recognisable, especially in the gate, in a 1931 Rolls! Oxonian superlatives are difficult to The Exeter Family Tessa Stanley Price | 55 Bowring, the College Librarian, reports Quantum Leap Jake Verter | 27 appearance of its splendid architecture and its overall sustain, but I reckon that this was the most spectacular The Birth of a Legend John Garth | 56 on the rare books and manuscripts Library Opens Its Doors to the Public ambience, Oxford is a much more female, much more departure ever of a Head of House. I’m also confident that The Problem of Prediction that the new facilities will make readily David Vaisey | 28 postgraduate and much more cosmopolitan place the 2014 rectorial transition at Exeter was among the most Adam Ward | 58 accessible, opening up fresh opportunities Pushing For Progress Georgina Lee | 30 than it was in the “Winter of Discontent” of 1978-9. successful ever in any Oxford college. Unleashing Brain Power for teaching and research. Similarly the True Blue Leonard Louloudis | 31 Fortunately our recent periods as the parents of Oxford There has been challenge, of course, in following Matthew Baldwin | 60 Bodleian’s new Weston Library is making Spot On Michael Essman | 32 undergraduates have helped to prepare us for these and such a successful predecessor (very appropriately created Japan Decorates Professor Nye millions of books and catalogued materials other major changes in the University and its colleges. a Dame in the June 2015 Birthday Honours List for Ben Wilcox | 61 available to the public, as David Vaisey, Even more important in this very pleasant adjustment to services to higher education and to economics). Yet, as From Exeter to Jesus Tim Hele | 61 Bodley's Librarian Emeritus, reveals. Oxford and Exeter has been the highly welcoming attitude I have said to many Exeter audiences since October, if Exonians in Print | 62 Naturally Exeter’s students are of Exonians, including not only Fellows and students but you are ambitious (as I am) for an institution, you want a at the forefront of education. Rachael also the large numbers of alumni and their families met “hard act to follow”. Exeter has real momentum, evident White discusses classical allusions during travels to London, Exeter, Saskatoon, Toronto, – for example – in the 700th celebrations (of which more in contemporary Australian culture, Washington, New York, Boston, Florida, San Francisco, Los below), in its fundraising (with record-setting levels of Rebecca Evans shares her map of the Angeles, Chicago, Hong Kong and Singapore. We have participation in the anniversary year of 2013-14), in the geology of Scotland’s Moine Thrust Zone, been made to feel very much at home in the famously successful operation of Oxford’s only College-level careers and Thomas Wilson describes how he cohesive and supportive Exeter community. service, in its interdisciplinary Rector’s seminar programme discovered unpublished William Morris Above all we have benefited from the exceptional and in the start of construction on the Walton Street letters that shed new light on the artist’s kindness of my predecessor, Frances Cairncross, and her quadrangle (to be named the Cohen Quad in memory views on socialism and women. Editor: Matthew Baldwin husband, Hamish McRae, both still very much part of the of the parents of the College’s greatest philanthropist, Editorial Intern: Georgina Lee I hope you will find this edition of life of Exeter. They facilitated our entry by moving out Exonian Sir Ronald Cohen (1964, PPE)). As the College Produced by Matter&Co Exon both educational and entertaining. Art Direction and Illustration: Sarah Furneaux of the Lodgings – and Frances out of her office – into begins to write a strategic plan for the years ahead, Exeter www.matterandco.com Production Manager: Lee Mannion temporary quarters two months early, thereby allowing has the opportunity to become even more prominent and Matthew Baldwin, Communications Officer

2 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 3 1 2 4

successful, emphasising academic objectives 3 (including the renewal of the library) now that the College’s greatest-ever building project – addition, there were important alumni- 5 which, drawing on donations from a number of related occasions such as subject Exonians, provides the opportunity to lift the dinners, the Young Alumni Garden Party, quality of everything we do – is less than a and the annual dinner of the Exeter year from completion. College Boat Club and Association. The 2014-15 academic year has included And there has also been the University what I soon learned to recognise as the usual dimension – many meetings, of course, busy round of Exeter life. My speechwriting especially of the Conference of Colleges, talents were tested in October during but also many social occasions: the very the welcoming dinners for new freshers, pleasant custom is for new Heads of graduates and scholars. I soon got used to House to be invited to as many other the rhythm of frequent College committee colleges as diaries permit! The opening and Governing Body meetings as well as of the new Weston Library – the utterly less formal occasions for exchanging views transformed “new Bodleian” – by David with the leaders of Exeter’s junior and middle Attenborough and Stephen Hawking in common rooms. Rector’s Collections provided March was a truly impressive experience. an opportunity to hear from tutors how much A very special dimension of 2014- academic progress our undergraduates 15 has been the culmination of the were making, a function supplemented for 700th anniversary celebrations. Key events since my arrival Peter Jackson – accompanied by his creative collaborator postgraduates by voluntary “academic review” have been donor drinks occasions in Oxford (at Modern and wife, Fran Walsh – discussed, in the presence of a large sessions. “Subject family dinners” for the four major November (for Exonians who fell in the First World War), in Art Oxford) and London (at the College of Arms and at the audience in the Sheldonian, the career that has brought academic areas brought together Fellows, postgraduates May (for their counterparts in the Second World War), and Athenaeum). The final speaking event of the anniversary to the screen The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. This and undergraduates in a setting of stimulating celebration. in October (a symposium marking 35 years of achievement was very memorable: an eloquent address in February at event, which depended on the achievements of Exeter’s Our undergraduates proved their academic prowess by by women Fellows and students at Exeter). the University Church of St Mary by former archbishop most famous alumnus, JRR Tolkien, neatly symbolised the gaining 14 Firsts or Distinctions in first-year exams, and 30 On the social side, Marguerite and I happily slipped Rowan Williams. In May I gave a lecture, eight days after mix of past achievement and promise for the future that Firsts in finals, during summer 2015. They also continued into the traditions of Wednesday and Sunday high table the General Election, in the parliamentary church, St characterises Exeter College at the end of the 2014-15 the vigorous tradition of extracurricular activities (mightily guest nights, encountering many alumni using their dining Margaret’s Westminster, on the English/Scottish Union, academic year. It has been a great privilege, and a highly assisted by Williams students), notably through the ExVac rights as we did so. Another special Exonian feature we past, present (and speculatively!) future, followed by dinner stimulating learning experience, to become part of such a charity, our superb choir and sport. Our postgraduates, learned to cherish was the series of cosmopolitan festivals – in the House of Lords. Those Westminster events were dynamic community. who have also been shining academically, shared in Diwali, Thanksgiving and Burns Night – that are now so well the “hinge” between the 700th year – begun so admirably many of these activities while creatively celebrating the established at Exeter. The annual College ball, at the start of by Rector Cairncross with her walk from Exeter Cathedral 50th anniversary of the Exeter MCR: they buried a time Trinity Term, impressed for its cheerful success in the face to Exeter College in the summer of 2013 – and Exeter’s Images from far left: 1 MCR President Andreas Harris (2012, capsule (in a hole they dug themselves!) at Exeter House of the only downpour that Oxford experienced during April! plunge into its eighth century. Life Sciences Interface) with the MCR time capsule; 2 Graduation Day; 3 The men’s boat takes to the water at in February and staged a reunion weekend in College in It was also a pleasure to welcome visiting speakers (many of The first event of the new Exeter century proper came Torpids; 4 Members of the Choir prepare to sing on VE Day; June. Other important aspects of remembrance came in them Exonians) to College for regular Rector’s Seminars. In in late June when the celebrated director and producer 5 The Young Alumni Garden Party

4 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 5 Clockwise from far left: how the South Quad will look once completed looking away from Walton Street; the building site from a similar view; Sir Ronald Cohen at the start of demolition work in 2014 Building for the there is quite compelling Over Easter the basement was evidence that the defences completed, with over 15,000 tons of designed by de Gomme in this earth removed (that’s around 800 lorry- location are reusing existing loads) and the concrete slab poured. Future: Cohen Quad drainage channels on the Since then, the ground and first floors edge of the flood plain. have been poured and we expect to put Also in Hilary, the the weatherproof roof on during the Long The last 12 months have been a whirlwind of activity, discovery, and College celebrated when Vacation. Already you can stand in the planning permission for special collections’ storage and reading celebration on the site of Exeter’s third quadrangle at Walton Street. Cohen Quad’s stunning rooms, you can see where the café will Katrina Hancock (1998, Earth Sciences), Director of Development. champagne and bronze roof be, and you can see the north and south was approved by the City quadrangles. The bedrooms are marked Council in late March. This out and you begin to get a sense of the of the city in 1644. They almost certainly was a pivotal moment for Exeter: we had views that students and Fellows will In November 2014 the Michael and Sonia Cohen, who believed shows again what can be accomplished, correspond with an east-west aligned already received approval for the shape have over the surrounding area, with College was thrilled to wholeheartedly that "education is the when the College and alumni partner ditch discovered at Cohen Quad, although of the roof and a metallic tiling, but it Worcester to the south and the Radcliffe announce that the new one thing that cannot be taken from together to support scholarship and the artefacts recovered from the ditch had taken over three years to reach an Observatory and new Blavatnik School of quadrangle would be you". His gift, together with those of future generations of Exeter students. were exclusively medieval. Its location agreement to use the Rimex stainless Government to the north. called “Cohen Quad” many other Exonians, has now brought In Hilary Term, the College appears to correspond with the junction steel tiles in beautiful contrasting So what next? We still expect to in recognition of the the total of philanthropic funds raised for historians were delighted to learn that between the western end of the inner colours, which architect Alison Brooks take possession in late July 2016 and generosity of Sir Ronald Cohen (1964, the new quadrangle to £16.5 million, just evidence of the Civil War defences line of defences and the more substantial had originally proposed. The opposition before then the interior will need to be PPE), who through his family’s foundation £1.5 million below the £18 million target designed by the Dutch military engineer and symmetrical outer defensive circuit. concerned glare from reflected sunlight, fitted out and the exterior tiling and stone had pledged a further donation towards (which represents 50% of the original Bernard De Gomme had been found The historic maps show that by the post- but the tiles will be anodised to achieve cladding completed. The bathroom pods the quadrangle, bringing his total gift budget for the quadrangle including running through the site. These defences, medieval period (possibly earlier) the area a stable and consistent colour, textured, will be delivered over the summer and to £9 million ($14 million). The building purchase, construction, fit out, and fees). which are shown on Loggan’s 1675 map was drained by a network of channels and then bead-blasted to further reduce the façade retention will be removed by will be named in honour of his parents, This is a remarkable achievement and of Oxford, were built prior to the siege in the immediate vicinity of the site, and any shine. September. Come and visit!

6 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 7 foundation and housed them in a Suetonius’ Lives of the twelve Caesars. succession of library buildings which In 1889, the library of the Biblical grew in size as the collection expanded. Scholar Alfred Edersheim was donated Some volumes were purchased, but many to the College, consisting of Hebrew, were donated and we still have some of Talmudic and early Christian literature. those early donations today, for example Additions to the collection are less a late 13th century manuscript, Petrus frequent in recent times, but there have Lombardus Sententiarum Libri IV, given been a few, most notably the acquisition by William Rede, Bishop of Chichester, last year of the manuscript teaching notes in 1374. of Rector John Prideaux (1578-1650). In 1470 Roger Keyes, the precentor These notes give an unusual and valuable of Exeter Cathedral, gave a series of insight into teaching methods and practice fine decorated manuscripts of works at Exeter College at that time. by, or attributed to, Hugh of St Caro: 18 Currently, the special collections

Images left to right: the Bohun Psalter, once the prayer book of Katharine of Aragon; architect's rendering of the Special volumes of biblical commentaries which are to be found in a series of locked Collections Reading Room at Cohen Quad; the Kelmscott Chaucer unique copy of the rules and regulations bear a curse on the frontispiece on any rooms in College, fairly inaccessible and of the Devon tin-mining industry printed who take the books from the library environmentally unsuitable. In 2017 we at Tavistock Abbey in 1533. without permission. will move all of this material to a purpose- The special collections also reflect Sixteenth century donations built Special Collections Centre at Cohen Showcasing Exeter’s the membership of Exeter College include 32 medical books from the Quad on Walton Street. over the years, holding works by – bequest of John Dotyn, a former Rector There, the collections can be and owned by – notable alumni. For of Exeter College (1537-1539), a housed all together and in the correct example, there are several books printed doctor and astronomer and sometime conditions for the first time. There will Special Collections by William Morris’s Kelmscott Press vicar of Bampton, who died in 1561. In be an adjacent reading room where including William Morris’s and Edward 1567, Exeter was given the magnificent staff can work with the collections, and Burne-Jones’s own copies of the great Bohun Psalter, once the prayer book of visitors can come to consult them. In 2017 a purpose-built Special Collections Centre will open Kelmscott Chaucer. Katharine of Aragon, by the College’s When the rare collections are The library has the very copy of Sir great benefactor, Sir William Petre better housed and more accessible, at Exeter’s Cohen Quad, allowing students, Fellows and visitors ready Charles Eliot’s Finnish Grammar which (1505/6-1572). there will be more opportunity to access to study some of the College’s rarest and most valuable treasures. was borrowed by the young Tolkien After a disastrous fire in the use them for teaching as well as for during his time as an undergraduate at College library in 1709, several research. The library staff will be able Joanna Bowring, College Librarian. Exeter and was later credited by him as benefactors came forward with notable to work with tutors, arranging student inspiring his love of creating languages. gifts of books and manuscripts. One sessions with selections of relevant So influential was this outwardly such benefactor was Joseph Sanford, material such as the early medical books The special collections ranging from a 12th century Priscian 15th century parchment account rolls, insignificant little book that Tolkien later who left a collection of many 15th or the large collection of historical at Exeter College consist to the typescript of WH Auden’s play land deeds and other estate documents, compared its discovery to Keats’s first and 16th century books to the library, tracts. Using the collections in this way of around 30,000 The Dog Beneath the Skin. The early buttery books, rolled maps and plans, glimpse inside Chapman’s Homer. including a 1525 edition of Boethius’ De will provide students with unique insight rare books, over 250 printed books include 75 incunables scrap books and photographs. All in all, the special collections consolatione philosophiae. into their subject and the possibility of manuscripts, and an (books printed before 1501), and many In part, the collections demonstrate contain some of the College’s greatest Later, Charles Boase, historian and original research opportunities. There archive containing historically important volumes, several Exeter’s close connection with the West treasures and it is interesting to consider College Librarian who matriculated at will also be the possibility of using early documents dating from the foundation of which appear to be unique to Exeter Country, featuring authors such as how these items have come to be here. Exeter in 1846, gave the library several material in exhibitions, library inductions of the College in 1314. The manuscripts College. The College archive holds a Thomas Hardy and RD Blackmore, and Exeter acquired books and Renaissance manuscripts including and displays so this fascinating material date from the 12th to the 20th centuries, wide variety of College records including items such as The Tinners' Charter, a manuscripts from the time of its Petrarch’s heavily annotated copy of can become better known.

8 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 9 can command your deepest but the right to place one’s deepest allegiance”. It could include, allegiance somewhere else, where no for example, the principle of worldly power can get at it. racial equality, or the notion of Of course, Dr Williams said this very restraint in the face of violence, much more gradually, working his way and so on. It was thought by through 20 centuries of tortuous human our ancient forebears that journey, including a full recognition of the rulers, whether emperors with awful abuse of power that parts of the a “civilisation” behind them, Christian church got mired in when they or tribal war-lords, could and went the way of imperialism for too long. should claim for themselves But, in my limited experience, the study the sort of right to obedience of history leaves one not with a sense of which our most deep-seated triumph but with a sense of understanding convictions call for from us. for the difficulties that people had to You can see why they would. wrestle with, and gratitude that we mostly It appeals to both the abusive inherit the best of what they discovered. and the constructive side of Dr Williams did not conclude with human nature. On the one a bullet-point list of pointers for modern hand, it hugely strengthens politics or church-state relations. That the levers of power for those is not his style. However, if one can pull whose desire is power over out a single memorable lesson, it could others; on the other hand, to be the following. Among the convictions Dr Williams at the 700th Anniversary Lecture those who want to protect the that many of us hold deeply is the he began by pointing out that the very sacred, it seems as if it might be a good notion of generous inter-dependence, Church and state unite in support of Doreen Lawrence’s (pictured centre) campaign for justice for victims of race crime idea of something called “a religion” is way of doing that. In fact it is not, but it or generous, mutually supportive itself a modern invention. (I think it may took some very brave people, and very relations, as the model of what human have been invented by 19th-century long arguments, to clarify this. society should embody. This is perhaps anthropologists in a brave but hopeless The important, liberating idea of a our central non-negotiable. Politics is attempt at objectivity.) To a citizen of secular political space was not discovered the realm of practical wisdom where Secular Churches ancient Rome, there was no such thing by brave anti-religionists in spite of clerical a conviction like that is worked out in as “a religion” which you could identify opposition in the 18th century. It was won practical policies. The sacred space is and adhere to. Paying your dues to the by brave second-century Christian people a different sort of space, where we get temple cult was simply what you did who were willing to pay taxes to, but not together to take a look at our deepest and Holy Societies as part of being a citizen. And therein burn incense to, the emperor (Caesar), convictions, and ask ourselves whether lies the beginning of a long, painful and who were executed for living by they need moulding, and whether we story in which Christian (and, one could precisely this. “They represented a are living up to them. This is not just Dr Rowan Williams’s 700th Anniversary Lecture was both provocative add, Jewish) commitments profoundly about interior life; it has many practical questioned the notion of a union between implications. But we don’t want to see our and insightful, reports Fellow in Physics Andrew Steane. sacred value and political power. The very idea deepest convictions explicitly attached to The historical background will party manifestos. We (I include here many surprise anyone who buys into modern- of something of us who are willing to speak of the When I saw on the of man that any thoughtful person can space in which human communities can day mythologies about the march of sacred in personal categories, and this programme for the do business with, no matter what their creatively seek to live. secularism. That blunt statement was not called “a is what Dr Williams affirmed) prefer that 700th anniversary year convictions may be on matters called A “good crowd”, as they say, in Dr Williams’s talk, but it is a thought religion” is politics should be conducted in the toned- that some imaginative “religious”. (I will say more about that gathered in the University Church for hinted at in the dry humour that leavened down language of secular discourse. But person or persons had round-about choice of phrase in the the lecture on 21 February. The building his presentation. In the ancient world – itself a modern that does not mean that secular discourse managed to secure a following.) Dr Williams brings to the has recently been refurbished and this, and this is a near-universal across the now earns the right to claim that it is booking with Rowan Williams (that is, the anniversary both academic insight and together with the bright sunlight, gave an world – it was thought that the sacred invention. the only language of adults, or the only Rt Revd and Rt Hon Dr Rowan Williams, a sense of deep sympathy with the open, refreshing feel to the afternoon. and the wielding of political and military type of conversation that can command former Archbishop of Canterbury), I hopes and aspirations of those who Dr Williams spoke on "Secular power should go together. Don’t think late- respect. No, people may, thoughtfully and was encouraged. Dr Williams has been founded the College. His lecture also, Churches and Holy Societies". A medieval popes here (I will come to that); challenge to the sacred claims of the way legitimately, reserve their final loyalty for an important presence in public life in perhaps, represented a recognition of the deliberately provocative title, of think late-antiquity Roman emperors. And things are”. This opened up the centrally something other than that; something our country for two or more decades. I constituency of the modern college for course, intended to make us question by the “sacred” don’t think religious robes important idea that the right of religion never quite captured in human attempts would rate him among the most insightful whom the word “secular” describes a very assumptions about demarcation lines and rituals. By the “sacred” Dr Williams is not the right to power but the right to at saying what matters, but nonetheless Archbishops for a century, and the kind positive part, but not the whole, of the between areas of human life. Indeed, invited us to have in mind “that which question. It is not the right to gain control, real and uplifting for all that.

10 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 11 Zaentz production The English Patient stories. But at the same time we had to I particularly enjoy. So what Fran and I are that creative control was released. make our movie.” probably going to do is make some smaller Closing the Circle “The next call was that [the rights The end result was “films I’m very, movies, make some New Zealand movies. situation with] The Hobbit was too very proud of”, he said. “We try to make “I’ve got The Dam Busters too: I’ve difficult … but The Lord of the Rings the films as good as we can. We keep been working on a script with Stephen A visit to Exeter College was a chance for acclaimed film director was ok. So we had to do that one first.” working on them. There is no such thing Fry over the last few years on and off. Initial funders Miramax wanted an to us as a finished script.” But whatever we do over the next few Peter Jackson to connect with the memory of JRR Tolkien, whose books “Americanised” project – a desire that Self-critical scrutiny can continue years, it will be quite a lot smaller.” have been so pivotal to his career. Edward Elliott (2011, History). led to a creative “fight” and “divorce” long after release. Watching King Following the Q&A, at dinner from Jackson and team. “I’ll be the first Kong this year for the first time since with the Rector and students at Exeter to admit I’m not a Tolkien expert – I its 2005 release, he and his partner College, Jackson admitted he and Fran would never claim to be,” he said. “We drowned out the soundtrack with had been to Oxford once before: a brief In 1914, JRR Tolkien proceedings. I was lucky enough to motion genius of Ray Harryhausen, a tried to respect his work as best we conversation of “sloppy edits” and deviation from the Lord of the Rings was a student at be chosen to conduct the centrepiece major childhood influence on Jackson. could. We tried not to Americanise. scenes in need of “tightening”. press tour for a quick drink in The Eagle Exeter College and interview, with clammy palms and a Only after recurrent discussions about We tried to protect the integrity of his “The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, and Child, Tolkien’s old retreat – a “sneak president of its JCR, cold sweat all of my own. Topics ranged how to construct their film “like Lord of I’m sure I’ll see them one in, sneak out” enjoyed most because it the Stapeldon Society. from Jackson’s wide filmography to his the Rings” did they decide to try adapting day,” he reflected. “It’s was incognito. Comfortable with movie That year Oxford's first technical achievements, and, of course, Tolkien’s work itself. a strange thing. You’re epics and Sheldonian Theatres, the cinemas were founded, the Phoenix his attachment to Tolkien. “We were in a first-look deal with making a film you want director – who can only be described Picture Palace and the Oxford (now At the box office, each of the Miramax and Harvey Weinstein. The to see, but when it’s as warm, modest and charming – is yet Ultimate) Picture Palace – both still two trilogies grossed close to $3 billion idea we originally pitched was to do The finished you don’t want more at home with the homely. in use today. But some eyed the new worldwide. The Lord of the Rings: The Hobbit as one movie, and then to do to see it.” At the College, he was given entertainment with suspicion, fearing Return of The King alone garnered 11 The Lord of the Rings as two movies. Asked what the opportunity to scrutinise Exeter’s it would suck people away from reality Oscars and four Golden Globes. Success We didn’t know who had the rights.” projects he might Tolkien-related archives, including a and gainful pursuits. The Stapeldon earned Jackson, born and operating in Weinstein investigated and called them want to pursue next, report card, his signature in the College Society convened on the motion, “The New Zealand, his country’s Order of Merit back. “He had found out a producer Jackson stated he register, and the minutes to a Stapeldon cheap ‘Cinema’ is an engine of social Knight Companion. However, all this named Saul Zaentz had the rights to The was in “no rush” to Society meeting which Tolkien – corruption.” Tolkien commented in favour. might never have come to be. Lord of the Rings and he had the rights recommence filming. secretary at the time – depicted as “Haha, really?” grins Sir Peter Middle-earth had not been his to half The Hobbit but not the other half Nor indeed to return to a battle. Jackson appeared sincerely Jackson. “Well, I’d love to show him our initial destination. Closing the shoot – I don’t know which half it was.” Hollywood. moved, saying it was the first time he movies. I’d be terrified. I’m sure there on the director’s fifth feature The Zaentz had “rejected many “At the moment had been able to connect directly with would be lots in them he’d not like at all. Frighteners, he and partner Fran Walsh offers from lots of filmmakers”, said a lot of the films there the memory of the man whose work But hopefully some of what we did would (now Lady Jackson) had sought to Jackson. Leverage relied in the end on are not the sort of films helped him to such success. delight and surprise him.” create an original fantasy adventure in a Hollywood “guilt card”. According to It’s one moment from a unique the mould of Sinbad or Jason and the Jackson, it was not until Miramax’s late Q&A staged on 25 June as part of Argonauts – movies involving the stop- swoop to save the financially fraught Exeter College’s celebrations of the commencement of its eighth century, commemorating Tolkien, one of its most distinguished alumni. An audience thronged the Sheldonian Theatre, perspiring from excitement and not inconsiderable humidity, to levy questions at the acclaimed director of the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies. Exeter’s Rector, Sir Rick Trainor, opened

"I’d love to show Tolkien our movies. I’d be terrified!" Images (clockwise from left): Sir Peter Jackson addresses the Sheldonian Theatre; JRR Tolkien (back) at Exeter College in 1914; Sir Peter Jackson talks to students in the Rector's garden

12 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 13 William Morris Letters Uncovered

Thomas Wilson (2013, History) spent a summer at the former An Australian residence of William Morris (1852, Classics) where he hit Odyssey upon letters never before published. Exonian William Morris what was hidden in there. So, as any cause; “I should suggest that you (1834 – 1896) is impressionable history student would, should try to influence women that Government House, Melbourne perhaps most famous I believed I was the next Indiana Jones you come across: in the working now because of his as I found bundles of letters written classes, especially, much depends on Rachael White (2013, Classical Literature) journeys down under to discover wallpapers. However, by the Morris family, documents from the women (wives especially) being a country alive with classical allusions. beyond all the acanthi, the reign of Charles II and socialist sympathetic with the men who are in pomegranates and strawberries, he was pamphlets from the 19th century. the movement. You can have more a leading figure of socialism in England The most exciting finds were leaflets if you think you can distribute during the 19th century. This always two unpublished letters written by them usefully.” In his vision of socialism, “I tell you so in stark lie”, ran a line in a poem popular with of secondary punishment like Norfolk struck me as odd, given that he was William Morris in 1894 on the subject women were not so much independent naked blunt English troops at the time. Island and Macquarie Harbour. For the born into a wealthy middle-class family of socialism, in response to a question political thinkers and actors, but played that you are as great a My DPhil thesis explores the rich Anzac troops in the First World War, their and held the lease of a beautiful Tudor that one woman posed to him: will a role in supporting husbands. tyrant as Nero ever was”, afterlife of the classical past in Australian identification with the ancient heroes of summer residence, Kelmscott Manor. socialism make a man honest? “I Morris’s character comes across said one convict to the culture, of which these are only a few the Dardanelles was a source of humour Over the summer of 2014, should rather say that it will not in these letters, as he fears he is commandant of the penal examples. Classical literature and ideas as well as pathos. thanks to Oxford’s Internship prevent them from being honest as the being patronising and begs her to colony on Norfolk Island. He received an were influential in the official, public My interest lies not only in Programme, I was fortunate to spend present system does. When society is “excuse the lecturing.” You can feel extra 100 lashes for his pains. sphere of the Australian colonies, in their unearthing these examples and exploring five weeks working in Kelmscott. Set made up of slaves and slaveholders his enthusiasm and passion for his Classical allusions abound in architecture, insignia, education systems the influence of the classical on Australia, in the Oxfordshire Cotswolds, next and the parasites of the latter, as it is cause too, as he apologises: “only Australian culture from the date of its and political debates. The public buildings but also in examining what Australia to the river Thames, this house was nowadays, honesty is impossible for since you asked me a question I settlement as a penal colony in 1788. of Melbourne and Sydney offer several made of the classics. Virgil’s Georgics described by Morris as the “loveliest the average man, and difficult for even thought you might be interested in the Early European depictions of Australia’s examples of neo-classical architecture, and Eclogues, Hesiod’s Works and haunt of ancient peace.” I began by the heroic to practice.” whole subject.” Aboriginal people show them in the while the War Memorial in Sydney’s Days, and Homer’s Iliad are all vigorously creating a working list of photographs, By this stage, Morris was It is an extraordinary feeling to poses of Greek statuary, complete with Hyde Park bears a striking resemblance reinterpreted by colonial Australians paintings and sketches that would approaching the end of his life, but rediscover letters written by someone marble-white skin and ancient weaponry. to a Greek temple and eschews more in contexts far removed from the show how the appearance and – as these letters prove – he still over a century ago. This feeling is Participants in political life in the 19th conventional Christian symbolism for schoolrooms and universities of England. function of the manor had changed retained a strong socialist view and made all the more meaningful when century drew on classical visual forms classical imagery. Classics occupied a I spent Hilary Term 2015 in over time. Apart from looking through was keen to recruit new followers, I remember that this was a person to glorify themselves as the founders of (controversially) dominant place in the Australia with the support of a DPhil online collections, I dived into the as he suggests that she join a who came to Exeter College 160 their nation in busts and bronze profiles, curriculum of both Sydney and Melbourne Research Grant from Exeter, which manor’s small archive room and found local socialist league and, in a style years before I did. Indeed, he wrote while their opponents used classical universities when they were first founded. enabled me to work with archival many surprises. recognisable to all Oxford students, he very kindly of the friends he made allusion to insult them. (“Twopenny Antiquity also offered a vocabulary material at the State Library of New Kelmscott’s archive had gives his recipient a reading list. here in a letter to his mother in 1855, Catiline” was considered particularly and framework which private individuals South Wales, the University of Sydney, remained completely uncatalogued The letters are also fascinating claiming that “this love is something cutting.) Australian troops fighting used to describe the land which was to and the Australian War Memorial. I read and unexamined for the past half- as they show Morris’s attitude towards priceless, and not to be bought again at Gallipoli were keenly aware of the many of them a place of exile. In poetry convict memoirs, war reports, university century and nobody (alive) knew women and their role in the socialist anywhere and by any means.” poetic resonance of fighting in the same and memoirs Australia is often figured speeches, and letters whose authors landscape where Homer’s Greeks and as a kind of classical underworld, “Pluto’s all form part of the vibrant tradition Trojans struggled: “Australian backblock land”, especially by those who had been of Antipodean engagement with the heroes slain/With Hector and Achilles transported and served time in places classics my thesis will, I hope, uncover.

14 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 15 BASE - Whole Area 1 2 97 03 000m 000m 98 99 00 01 02

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32 67 27 2 At least 25m DURNESS GROUP 63 9 in Highland Fling 2 6 81 50 02 23 81 28 26 24 20m SALTERELLA GRIT MEMBER 40 15 40 15 78 19 15 16 19 17 80 17 19 17 23 10 88 22 75 16 12 23 23 64 64 39 26 20 40m FUCIOD BEDS MEMBER 64 21 21 6 64 20 56 30 36 21 29 15 56 16 19 84 44 80 4 17 6 29 36 45 34 19 81 43 41 18 3 1 49 38 14 34 17 28 45 62 22 74 24 25 62 45 62 42 38 84 61 24 29 82 52 13 79 17 16 76 54 26 36 47 3 3 37 72 32 59 3 31 46 84 30 24 5 27 38 7 37 33 51 43 00 48 40 56 46 65 13 65 49 During her mapping project in the Scottish Highlands, earth scientist 46 100m PIPE ROCK MEMBER 76 32

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24 26 Over the summer of The aim of the project was mountain building event, the Caledonian 16

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83 25 2014, as part of the to make a geological overlay on a Orogeny, which built the Highlands 21 7 02 37 13

6161 61 61 61 second-year Earth normal Ordnance Survey map to to the size of the modern day Alps. It 79 7 78 37 30 30 was fascinating to see rocks as old 7 Sciences syllabus, I spent show rock types, their boundaries 4

12 22 six weeks in Kinlochewe and the geological structures of the as 2.9 billion years and the origin and At least 300m APPLECROSS FORMATION 19 in the north-west area (pictured right). This was used evolution of the once supreme mountain 23

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23 Scottish Highlands for the purpose of in conjunction with observations of range that was the Caledonides, today 20 24

23 Moine Thrust ² spanning the east coast of the USA and 34 constructing a geological map of a 15km rock features and additional reading 21 02

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45 61 38 52 28 area in a region of my choice. Based on to construct a report on the geological north-west Scotland. 32

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44 35 21 5959 59 51 59 59 the fantastic geology of Scotland, its history of the area on a local and 25 17 25

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33 26 18 At least 100m 17 66 81 3417 accessibility, and the beautiful scenery regional scale. To view Rebecca Evans’s full mapping 62 27 DIABAIG FORMATION 37

19 of the Highlands, I chose to undertake The geology of Kinlochewe project or to support Exeter students’ Proterozoic: Older than 1000 Ma

31 the project mapping the geology of the suggests that north-west Scotland was mapping projects visit: 31 14

58 58 58 58 7 world-famous Moine Thrust Zone. once under great compression from a www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/mapping 43 03

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Scale 1:10000 Oct 21, 2014 22:59 Rebecca Evans Oxford 0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1 km

The Caledonian Orogeny built the Highlands to the size of the modern day Alps.

The Highlands at Kinlochewe and Rebecca Evans’s geological map

16 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 17 Made in the USA

Researching mental health provision in North America was a life-shaping experience for Aideen Carroll (2009, Medical Sciences).

Over the years, life at groups in their towns and cities. This quintessential Texan: shooting rifles on Exeter has allowed me meant that, for the few days I spent with a ranch, eating Tex-Mex burritos and to accumulate a number each host, I was lucky enough to see southern fried chicken, and shopping of remarkable memories. the North American healthcare system for cowboy boots. Then it was on to the The North American through their eyes. beautiful scenery of Colorado: afternoons Travel Scholarship, During my four weeks of travelling, in the small town of Breckenridge and however, must rank as one of my I shadowed clinicians, participated in a the beautiful Garden of the Gods, with Studying in Oxford enabled Kari Baker to broaden her horizons, including a visit to Zadar’s sea organ (pictured) favourite life experiences to date. healthy eating class for individuals with a dusk trip to the natural Red Rocks As someone studying medicine, I chronic mental illness, met with patient Amphitheatre. In California, I took a have always been interested in mental advocacy groups, studied Texan state wonderfully scenic train journey from health and applied to the scholarship mental health law, sat in on a research the small city of Merced in the San with the intention of exploring mental group, visited a homeless shelter, Joaquin Valley to the bright lights of San Breadth and Depth health law and provision of services dropped in on outreach clinics, and Francisco. In Vancouver, I learnt about in North America. The theme was asked numerous awkward questions the Canadian staple of poutine and deliberately broad as I wanted to use the about the funding of services (which Vancouver’s signature Caesar cocktail, The Holaday Scholar Kari Baker (2014, Global Governance and Diplomacy) local knowledge and contacts of each led to me being accused of being a and finally I travelled to Toronto where, finds an extensive education crucial for a career in military intelligence. alumnus I met to help shape my time. state spy!). Throughout, I talked to in between meeting Sir Rick Trainor and Despite only a handful of alumni brave, wonderful people about their visiting Niagara Falls, I found time to in my chosen destinations working experiences accessing mental health relax in a delightful guest cottage owned Like many at the ability to situate this information within One of the most profound ways in in healthcare, the response was services, and also to those striving to by my hosts and even managed to spot United States Air Force its proper global context and make which Oxford has enabled me to improve amazing. As well as generously offering provide high quality care. It was both a some moose. Academy, I joined the Air recommendations that acknowledge concerns my ability to engage with accommodation, alumni went out of their motivating and humbling experience. I am full of gratitude for all those Force with the dream of its historical, geopolitical, and cultural concepts in depth. My degree course, way to organise meetings with relevant I took a work hard, play hard who help facilitate the scholarship; the becoming a pilot, and foundations is a fundamental task for an Global Governance and Diplomacy, individuals and took time to teach me attitude throughout, and experienced North American Travel Scholarship is a during my four years intelligence professional. It demands an includes between six and eight hours about the local mental health charities, as much American culture in each state gift and will always remain one of my there I was fortunate to participate in education with breadth and depth and of formal contact time per week on healthcare services and advocacy as I could. For a week, I lived life as a most valued Exeter memories. the freefall parachuting, soaring, and an emphasis on critical assessment and closely related topics. At the Academy, powered flight programmes. I thoroughly communication skills. My experiences I often experienced the same amount enjoyed all of these experiences, but at both the Air Force Academy and of contact time on a daily basis, but on found myself drawn to the field of Oxford have been developmental and topics ranging from physics to Spanish. intelligence because of its commitment complementary in this respect. Consequently, beyond the transition to analysing the forces shaping our The Academy’s curriculum of from a Bachelor’s to a Master’s, my time world. After spending a summer in mandatory liberal arts and sciences at Oxford is allowing me to specialise. Israel discussing cultural and security classes builds a broad foundation upon Through this increased depth, my challenges and another on an intelligence which cadets can engage with a vast ability to make nuanced arguments that internship in Washington, DC, I became range of topics and strengthens the ability challenge assumptions has improved increasingly interested in the capabilities, to work under pressure. My honours substantially, a skill which I hope will limitations, and ethics of the intelligence programme also thoroughly challenged serve me well in the intelligence world. services within the contemporary state. and advanced my analytical skills – skills I treasure my time at the In this age of information, that a modern military officer must Academy, but I am also grateful for the intelligence work and education are possess. However, Oxford’s educational opportunity to build upon the skills and fundamentally interconnected. Compiling setting, which fundamentally differs in knowledge I gained there through my information is becoming progressively structure from the Academy, has provided studies at Oxford thanks to the Holaday easier but inversely, among so much me with opportunity to focus on several Scholarship. I hope to employ this data, assessing which are credible and crucial areas of my education that I investment in my education through a relevant becomes more difficult. The neglected while at the Academy. lifetime of service. Left: Garden of the Gods, Colorado. Right: Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Colorado

18 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 19 Second Star to the Right and Straight On Till Morning

Zoe Jackson (2012, Engineering Science) reports on a College ball full of wonder.

After the success of the 700th anniversary ball last summer the bar was certainly set high for the College ball this year. Our theme was “Neverland” and the College was transformed, with the Hall becoming Captain Hook’s ship, the Rector’s garden a fairy grotto, and a large-scale sunken pirate ship erected in the Front Quad. Highlights included the return of the dodgems to the Front Quad, bespoke cocktails served in the Chapel and a food court in Margary Quad. We were overwhelmed by the interest we received – tickets sold out in a record 24 hours! On top of the success of the night (ignoring the rain!) we also made a profit of £1,000 for ExVac, Exeter’s student-run charity. Everyone had a very enjoyable evening and the committee had a great deal of fun organising the event. We very much look forward to next year’s ball!

Images: Students dodging the rain at this year’s Neverland themed ball Illustrated map by Max Mulvany (2008, Fine Art)

20 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 21 Exeter Wins Rugby 10s Cuppers Rowing A rollercoaster year for Exeter’s rugby team includes promotion, The Boat Club began relegation and silverware, writes Sam Hillman (2012, Physics). the year with two very novice crews brimming with an enthusiasm that Exeter College RFC lost promotion to Division One for the first fellow Division One side New College endured a rainy Hilary many great players at time since 2011, whilst also boasting the relatively early in the tournament, and Term dominated by erg the end of the 2013- best defensive record in the league – a Exeter went out in the quarter-finals. sessions, circuits, and river restrictions. 2014 season and was net score of 198-45 over five games. Win or lose, I am incredibly proud to Thankfully, the rain cleared just in time looking to rebuild come In Hilary, Division One proved a be part of a club with an atmosphere and for Torpids, where the men’s first crew Michaelmas. Thankfully trickier prospect for the club. Despite ethic like Exeter’s. ECRFC continues to was dubbed the “miracle of Exeter” worth it, enabling us to enter two boats watching each of our crews escape a number of talented freshers joined competing well in all games, a lack of bring together a wide range of students after impressive consecutive row-overs, in "Rowing On", in addition to our three spoons, in some cases holding off the ranks this year, leaving us with a manpower proved too great a handicap for of all backgrounds and abilities, and it is despite limited water time. fixed-division crews. opponents by mere inches for a whole back seven that would be the envy of Exeter when up against the larger colleges, this mix that is so rewarding. The squad was raring to go in Summer Eights unfolded to kilometre. It has been a hard, but strong any college. and the team will be back in Division Two As ever, the end of the season is Trinity Term, kicking off with a training (mostly) sunshine and growing, if year, and we look forward to seeing this Success came immediately at the start of the 2015-16 season. accompanied by goodbyes, and this year camp, and taking full advantage of our somewhat grudging, respect for Exeter work pay off in next year’s bumps races, as Exeter dominated the Rugby 10s ECRFC appeared to be punching we say farewell to Jake Jacobs, Joe Weld- Abingdon training facilities. The 6am College Boat Club over the public hopefully winning blades once more! Cuppers tournament held on the first above its weight and well prepared for a Blundell, Ralph Spencer-Tucker, Floris outings and double training sessions announcement system. We have enjoyed day of term, with a tight final settled by a serious run in the Cuppers tournament ten Nijenhuis, Will Johnson and Harry were sometimes gruelling, but ultimately one of our best Eights in recent years, Alice Rossignol (2014, Williams) final-minute diving try in the corner. With but, after giving Lincoln a sound Swinhoe. However, with a new intake of the new silverware proudly on display in thrashing to avenge last year’s knock- freshers on the horizon, Exeter has a good Exeter’s bar, ECRFC pushed on to secure out defeat, we were unlucky to draw chance of achieving great things next year.

Kicking On

In only the second season and finished second, unlucky not to be who enthusiastically turned up for early since its creation, the promoted. The Men’s second team also morning games and practices, often in Exeter women’s football had a great season, finishing at the top of torrential rain and on sodden pitches. team has had a highly their division, whilst the first team finished Women’s football at Exeter provides successful year. Producing seventh in the JCR Premier Division. a lovely way for different year groups consecutive victories in The Women’s team enjoyed a series to integrate, as well as an opportunity the Women’s College League against of excellent victories, with a particularly to play with the Williams and graduate four of the teams in our Division, we were decisive win against a combined Christ students. Almost everyone on the team placed first with a goal difference of 16 Church and Oriel side which ended 7-1 had played little to no football before, ahead of a deciding match at the end of to Exeter, and we were thrilled with such but we have shown this doesn’t matter. the season against the Oxford Brookes a successful league season given the second team. Although defeated, we team’s relative youth and size. Charlotte Cato (2013, Modern showed great determination against the This year’s team was made up Languages) The Cuppers winning team larger and well-coached university team of a group of extremely keen players,

22 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 23 Sing from the Rooftop I ♥ New York For Exeter’s choir the 700th anniversary celebrations were a springboard for even bigger and greater things, reports Tim Muggeridge (2013, Music), After six years in Oxford, Vice-Chancellor Organ Scholar. Professor Andrew Hamilton decides it’s time to return to the US. Alex Doody (2013, Modern Languages). For many at Exeter, 2015 has been a chance to draw breath after Oxford’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Andrew Speaking about his time at Oxford, Professor Hamilton the 700th anniversary Hamilton, will leave Oxford in December to said “It is a huge privilege to serve this great university and celebrations. The choir become president of New York University in will remain so for the rest of my time here. It is premature to had an extremely the New Year. talk of achievements and legacies – there is still much to be successful 2014 with the release of a An academic, Professor Hamilton done on my watch – but I am delighted to have been part of critically acclaimed CD, a concert with the studied Chemistry at the University of Exeter a very exciting, dynamic and successful time in Oxford’s long Oxford Philomusica, and a tour to the East and the University of British Columbia before receiving a PhD and illustrious history.” Coast of the United States. Naturally the from Cambridge in 1980. Since then, he has held a number The Chancellor of the University, Lord Patten question I asked myself at the start of this of positions, including Assistant Professor of Chemistry at of Barnes, said: “[Professor Hamilton] has shared his year was what on earth to do next? Princeton, Department Chair and Professor of Chemistry departure plans with me, and I know he will continue to Michaelmas often begins with choirs Members of the Choir sing from the College tower on Ascension Day at the University of Pittsburgh, and Provost of Yale. He serve Oxford for his remaining period in office with the trying to find their feet following a new has won international accolades for his research into the same remarkable energy and commitment that have made intake of singers, but Exeter Choir jumped During the Easter vacation the Evensong in front of a congregation of use of synthetic design to understand and mimic biological his tenure as Vice-Chancellor such a success. When the straight in, collaborating with the Oxford choir took a weekend residency in over 200. activity, including the Arthur C Cope Scholar Award from the time comes, he will leave Oxford with our best wishes and Lieder Festival in October and performing Oxford and London which saw them Through the dedication of its American Chemical Society in 1999 and the Izatt-Christensen sincere thanks.” Duruflé’s hauntingly beautiful Requiem at make their debut appearance in the members, the choir has gone from Award in Macrocyclic Chemistry in 2011. In July the University of Oxford announced Professor Exeter’s All Souls’ Day service in November. Brandenburg Choral Festival, take part strength to strength in the past two years Appointed in 2009, Professor Hamilton is Oxford’s Louise Richardson, currently the Principal and Vice-Chancellor Christmas brought with it perhaps my in a workshop with top choral composer – developing as a musical and social unit second longest serving Vice-Chancellor of the modern of the University of St Andrews, had been approved by favourite event of the year, the Children’s and conductor Malcolm Archer, discover beyond anything it has achieved before era. Among his notable achievements is spearheading Congregation, the University's Parliament, as Oxford's next Carol Workshop – a new initiative bringing the glamorous life of television during – and with a tour to Colgone and Bonn the “Oxford Thinking” fundraising campaign, which Vice-Chancellor. Professor Richardson will succeed Professor children of alumni to spend an afternoon filming of ITV’s Endeavour (look out for in July and the recording of a Christmas has raised over £2 billion, since its launch in 2008 to Hamilton on 1 January 2016. An internationally renowned performing some festive favourites with us in the first episode of the new series), CD for release in October 2016, I can see fund scholarships, bursaries, student support, research, scholar of terrorism and security studies, Professor Richardson members of the choir. and return to Westminster Abbey to sing this continuing for many years ahead. infrastructure and academic posts. will become the University’s first female Vice-Chancellor. Connecting Exonians

Katherine Fieldgate, Annual Fund Officer, unveils the mentoring service that is helping Exeter students get ahead.

For many students, leaving online mentoring platform designed to account can upload their details in a Exeter and entering connect current students with alumni. matter of moments. You can also specify the world of work is Exonians around the world have the level of time commitment that suits a daunting prospect. a wealth of experience and knowledge you, whether offering to look over a CV, Despite all the information that can benefit students who will soon meet for a coffee, or provide a work now available online, there take their first step on the career ladder. experience opportunity; any time you is no substitute for a conversation with Whether you have recently graduated or can spare will be greatly appreciated. someone who may once have pondered retired, current students are keen to hear To begin offering careers advice to the same question in the Fellows’ Garden: from Exonians about their careers and the students today, please visit “what am I going to do next?” lessons they have learnt since graduating. www.exetercollege.aluminate.net.

To facilitate such discussions, With just a few clicks you can sign Vice-Chancellor Professor Hamilton (right) with Queen Sofía of Spain (middle) and Dame Frances Cairncross during Exeter has launched Aluminate, an up to be a mentor. Those with a LinkedIn Exeter’s 700th anniversary celebrations in 2014

24 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 25 Vobis Gratulamur Oxford honoured Dame Hilary Mantel and other high achievers at its Encaenia ceremony in June, reports Ellen Brewster (2013, English).

Quantum Leap

Oxford could soon be home to the world’s fastest computer, writes Jake Verter (2014, Williams).

Dame Hilary Mantel enjoys the gardens at Exeter College before processing to the Sheldonian Theatre for Encaenia Within the next five years, the world’s interconnected components, each capable of holding 20 At the end of the academic year the – proved amusing, particularly when he noted that “it is fastest computer could be located right “qubits” – the basic units of quantum information processing. University holds its august Encaenia very hard to put words into the mouths of people from an here in Oxford. In 2013, the Engineering This is in contrast to “bits”, used in ordinary computers. Qubits ceremony to celebrate its benefactors and earlier age without either sounding affected or conveying and Physical Sciences Research Council speed up complex calculations using quantum properties award honorary degrees to some of the too much of a modern flavour – one might as well try to decided to invest £270 million in the UK like superposition and entanglement. Exeter Fellow in world’s most distinguished high-achievers. speechify about contemporary matters in classical Latin.” National Quantum Technologies Programme Physics Professor Andrew Steane cites walking up a hill This year, six people received honorary The laughter of the audience here divided in two: those as part of a push to translate basic physics research as an example of superposition: “with one step, you have doctorates, including Dame Hilary Mantel, the two-time who could understand the speech, and, fractionally later, into practical applications, something that the UK “has a moved both along and upwards at the same time.” Similarly, Man Booker Prize-winning author of Wolf Hall and Bring those reading the translation (myself included). history of not doing that well,” according to Professor Tim within the classical binary system, bits can store either a Up the Bodies. Receiving an honorary doctorate of letters Spiller of the University of York. Professor Spiller’s hub is 1 or a 0, but in a quantum environment, qubits could store Exeter hosted the pre-ceremony reception, known alongside Dame Hilary were historian Sir Richard Evans focusing on quantum communications, a Glasgow-based both a 1 and 0, or any values in between. Moreover, when as Lord Crewe’s Benefaction, in the Fellows’ Garden. and the former president of Brown University (and first hub is developing quantum imaging techniques, a hub in qubits are entangled, this allows them to be used for multiple Rector Sir Rick Trainor joined academics, students, and black president of an Ivy League institution), Professor Birmingham is studying quantum sensing and measurement, simultaneous calculations, which leads to processing speeds University dignitaries and mingled with the honorands in Ruth Simmons. and the Oxford hub for Networked Quantum Information millions of times faster than modern computers. perfect sunshine, enjoying champagne and strawberries Professor Dame Ann Dowling, the University Technologies (NQIT) is researching quantum computing. One unknown about these systems is their likely before processing to the Sheldonian Theatre through of Cambridge’s first female Professor of Mechanical Nearly £38 million of new government funding has effect on the information age. Without a functional quantum Radcliffe Square. Engineering and the first woman to head the Department been allocated to the NQIT, which, though based at Oxford, computer in place, it is hard to predict all of their potential Encaenia is conducted mostly in Latin, but a of Engineering there, received an honorary doctorate of represents a collaboration of over a dozen companies and uses. For example a common method of encrypting data is translation of the words of the Public Orator, Professor science. Professor Dowling was praised for her research nine universities: Oxford, Bath, Cambridge, Edinburgh, Leeds, based on the assumption that factoring prime numbers is Richard Jenkyns, was available, and his speech following into low-noise vehicles, prompting Professor Jenkyns to Southampton, Strathclyde, Sussex, and Warwick. One of their practically impossible for a traditional computer. A quantum the presentation of the honorands was given in English. It present her as “a loudly proclaimed creator of quietness.” primary goals is to build a “Q20:20” computer, which would be system could solve such problems in seconds, which was pleasing to note in that speech former Rector Frances Also recognised for their contributions to science were the most powerful quantum computer ever created. would necessitate the development of even more complex Cairncross received mention for her damehood, awarded in earth and environmental scientist Professor Wallace Describing the foundation of this area of research, cryptographic methods. Other potential uses include the Queen’s birthday honours this year. Broecker and Professor Sir Magdi Yacoub, Professor of Oxford’s Professor Samson Abramsky explains, “the kinds producing very fast searches of unordered data and quicker The main purpose of the ceremony is to recognise Cardiothoracic Surgery at the National Heart and Lung of information processing performed by ordinary computers machine learning. the achievements of the honorands. Dame Hilary was Institute, Imperial College London. are based on classical physics, although we know that the Something we can be sure about is Oxford’s place praised for “her books [which] display great variety” and The final honorand – Ms Jessye Norman, the revered world is fundamentally quantum.” This revolution opens up at the forefront of the quantum computing boom. These which “receive the admiration of general readers and opera singer – was prevented from attending by illness, the possibility for exploiting features of quantum mechanics technologies are poised to advance such diverse fields as reviewers alike.” Professor Jenkyns’s oration – or its and it is expected that an honorary doctorate in music will for the world of information processing. healthcare, communications, and security, and there is no translation for those of us whose Latin wasn’t up to scratch be conferred on her at Encaenia next year. The idea of the Q20:20 is to have a network of 20 better place from which to observe that growth than here.

26 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 27 The Bodleian’s new Weston Library opened at And then came the computer, which, by enabling the end of March. Now, the former forbidding new titles to get into the catalogue faster and with subject fortress that was the 1930s New Bodleian access, not only revolutionised what information could be Library, with its entry for readers only in Parks got from the catalogue, but also changed the way in which Road, has been reborn with an inviting façade it was delivered: electronically and off-site. This was a huge on Broad Street, welcoming the general revolution, which brought with it the need to convert into public into a vast new atrium (named Blackwell Hall) off a new format four centuries of idiosyncratic work. After a which there are exhibition galleries, a lecture room, a café and difficult (and expensive) period of adjustment, the beneficial a shop. From this hall, accredited readers can access the new results of this revolution became clear during my decade as reading, research and seminar rooms. Facing those coming in Bodley’s Librarian and are now taken for granted. to this great airy space is a huge digital display screen, which And now a second revolution is under way: a features a rolling timeline of the Bodleian’s development revolution not in the way information about the Bodleian’s since it first opened its doors in 1602. holdings is disseminated, but in the nature of the holdings Some five months before the Weston’s opening, themselves. Many conventional research materials, the Bodleian appointed an Associate Director with including scholarly journals, may now be published only responsibility to lead its Digital Library Systems and in electronic form and, alongside these, scholars require Services Team in providing high quality digital information books from past eras to be digitised and made available services and for developing content and tools to support off-site. On the archive front, politicians’ papers are likely to digital scholarship. contain hundreds of thousands of e-mails. How are these These two events demonstrate to be catalogued, stored, conserved a considerable change in the way and made available over the centuries that a library like the Bodleian, The library is ahead in the way that manuscripts with its proud history over four and print have been over the centuries centuries of collecting and providing on the point of past? The archive training from which manuscripts and printed materials I benefited in the late 1950s has long for learning and scholarship, is accessioning since been dropped. The Bodleian responding to (a) the changed its 12 millionth now trains digital archivists. format by means of which such I recently asked Richard Ovenden, materials are now delivered; (b) the printed book. the current Bodley’s Librarian, how changed needs and methods of work he saw the future, and his reply was: of today’s library users; and (c) the “more of the same, but different”. No changed priorities of those who help radical change in the means by which to finance the world’s great libraries. we communicate from one generation to the next has ever These changes have progressed with increasing completely supplanted its predecessor. The library is on the acceleration since the mid-1980s. I joined the Bodleian’s point of accessioning its 12 millionth printed book. Making staff in 1963. Trained originally as a historian and archivist, available the tools of learning that are “born digital” will be a I became head of the Library’s Western Manuscripts task in addition to, rather than as a replacement for, what has Department in 1975, and Bodley’s Librarian in 1986. gone before. Speaking very generally, the Bodleian in the 1960s was Further, though Sir Thomas Bodley four centuries much more about acquisition than it was about access. ago placed his library in Oxford University, he made it clear All its processes were manual, including the production that it was for “the republic of letters” in general. Over the Library Opens Its of its idiosyncratic catalogue of printed books, the huge centuries that republic, though worldwide, has been quite volume of which came to occupy the whole of the middle a small one. Now libraries like the Bodleian have been floor of the south range of the Old Schools Quadrangle. opened up to a wider world by the electronic revolution and The catalogue itself was simply an alphabetical list by future funding is likely to depend on widening this access. I Doors to the Public author of the library’s holdings, with no subject access. The doubt very much whether the Garfield Weston Foundation, Bodleian’s job was seen to be to acquire, list and make or the Hamlyn Foundation, or the Blackwell family or any available historical and current materials. Most readers, of of the others who have helped to finance and equip the Once more interested in acquisition than access, the Bodleian’s course, came with a subject in mind, but it was seen as the splendid new Weston Library would have been so generous new Weston Library is now more accessible than ever. role of others (tutors, reviewers, published bibliographies) if its availability to the general public, typified by the new to advise on what might be pertinent to that subject. The Broad Street entrance, had not been part of the Bodleian’s David Vaisey (1956, History). Bodleian’s job was to have it and to make it available. changed role in the world of learning.

28 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni Images: the exterior and interior of the newly opened Weston Library www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 29 Pushing for Progress True Blue After decades of inequality, women’s rowing is finally pulling level, For proud father Leonard Louloudis (1974, Modern History) writes Georgina Lee (2012, Modern Languages). the 161st Men’s Boat Race was double cause for celebration.

By the time the nine men boated for the joy of victory in this room. A different outcome seemed BNY Mellon Boat Race, Oxford had already almost too terrible to contemplate. achieved commanding victories in both The race began and the crews remained in agonisingly the historic Women’s Boat Race and the close contention for the first eight minutes, with never more Isis-Goldie reserves’ race. Exonians had than a second between them. And then, half-way through played a prominent part in both these the race, as they rounded the bend at Hammersmith, Oxford triumphs, with Lauren Kedar (2013, Earth Sciences) rowing made their move. Suddenly there was clear water between in the victorious women’s boat and Morgan Gerlak (2014, the two crews and the Dark Blues were pulling away. Economic and Social History) part of the winning Isis crew. It was then that the room erupted; we were an Exeter’s involvement in the final race on this unashamedly, gloriously partisan crowd and we were going to uncharacteristically warm and sunny afternoon was enjoy the moment for all it was worth. Everyone was on their somewhat more oblique. Constantine Louloudis, rowing in feet stamping, shouting and punching the air. As Oxford’s two- the stroke seat of the men’s boat, is not an Exonian… but length advantage grew into three and then four, we switched I am, and he is my son. In his last year at Oxford, and as to a deafening chant of “We want more!” And more we got, Oxford's women establish a commanding lead over Cambridge in a historic victory this year’s OUBC President, Constantine was vying for his as the Dark Blues reached the finish 20 seconds ahead of 2015 marked a historic year for the BNY The Women’s crews had to cover their own travel and kit fourth Boat Race victory – a feat of some significance in Cambridge, winning by six lengths in a masterful performance. Mellon Boat Races. For the first time, the costs, were coached by volunteers, and were generally the race’s long history. My wife and I will miss being part of this. We have women of Oxford and Cambridge competed restricted to the use of facilities and boats loaned or As in previous years, I took my position in the teeming seen the level of discipline, sacrifice and dedication over London’s tidal course. donated by local schools and colleges. Westminster School boathouse, where two wide-screen that goes into this event – one of the greatest tests of The Championship Course, a 6.8 Sponsorship from Newton Investment Management televisions had been strategically placed to give everyone sporting endurance in the world – as well as the passions kilometre stretch of the Thames from Putney – part of BNY Mellon – has transformed the Women’s Boat a view. It seemed even more crowded than usual, crammed it engenders and the global respect it commands. We to Chiswick Bridge, has been the scene of elation and Race. Helena Morrissey, Newton’s CEO and a Cambridge with the now familiar mix of family and friends, OUBC have been lucky enough to experience the excitement heartbreak since 1845. But while the Men’s Boat Race enjoys graduate, was the driving force behind a decision to provide members, coaching staff and numerous old Blues. As of Constantine’s participation and the thrill of his crews’ a 170-year history on this iconic course, the Women’s Boat equal funding for the Men’s and Women’s crews and to the boats lined up for the start, we stared at the screens, victories. We may not have the same involvement next year, Race has had a long and difficult journey to achieve parity. insist the Women’s Race be televised from the Tideway nervous anticipation palpable. I had only known the heady but we will certainly be shouting our support. Oxford University Women’s Boat Club’s foundation in alongside the Men’s Race. Detractors argued female crews 1926 only briefly predates the first Women’s Boat Race, on wouldn’t cope with the Championship Course’s demands. the Isis stretch of the Thames in 1927. Amid concern that Ms Morrissey was adamant: there would be parity or there racing side-by-side would be unseemly, the competition was would be no sponsorship deal. decided by time trial and style; the crews took turns to row On a bright, windy afternoon on 11 April 2015 the the course downstream as elegantly as they could, then detractors were proved wrong. Oxford’s women put out a upstream at full speed, before being awarded points by a dominant performance, winning by six and a half lengths in male umpire. Oxford won the first of these contests, which, 19 minutes and 45 seconds. Television audiences for the from 1935, became a proper side-by-side race over a half- Women’s Race reached 4.8 million in the UK and in excess mile course, alternating between the Isis and the Cam. of 100 million worldwide. The crew, stroked by the multi- Unlike the Men’s Boat Race, the Women’s Boat Race Olympic medalist Caryn Davies, contained Exeter’s Lauren continued throughout the Second World War, but there was a Kedar (2013, Earth Sciences), completing her second Boat hiatus from 1953 until 1964 after Oxford was banned from the Race victory. Isis for rowing over a weir and the near-folding of both clubs This was Oxford’s third consecutive win under head because of funding and organisational issues. In the 1970s the coach Christine Wilson, who has an extensive international Women’s Boat Race moved to Henley, where for the next four coaching career and is a tremendous asset to the Oxford decades it made a modest prelude in relative obscurity to the University Women’s Boat Club, made possible by the televised Men’s Boat Race, usually held a week later. sponsorship of Newton Investment Management. In this new Without television coverage and the considerable era for women’s rowing, we hope to see the Thames run sponsorship this could bring, funding remained a concern. Dark Blue for many years to come! Constantine Louloudis (fourth from left) and the Oxford crew celebrate victory

30 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 31 Spot On

Oxford hold their nerve to beat Cambridge in a game of sudden death, writes Michael Essman (2013, Medical Anthropology).

The 131st Varsity goal. After 90 minutes the match went to converted my penalty to keep our chances Senate House, University of Cambridge Football Match was held penalties for the fifth time in nine years. alive. Finally, with Oxford leading 7-6, Dark on Sunday 8 March at I was not eligible to take a penalty Blues’ goalkeeper Ben Szreter came up Cambridge United’s in last year’s shootout at Craven Cottage, with a massive save to give Oxford victory. Abbey Stadium. Oxford but this time I was ready to step up. were keenly aware of The two teams remained inseparable the troubles this ground had presented in the shootout, with Oxford’s third and Images (from top): Michael Essman England’s other footballing giant, Cambridge’s fourth penalty takers missing scores a crucial penalty and vies for Manchester United, who drew against the target. As Oxford’s fifth shooter, I possession in the Varsity victory Cambridge United here in the fourth Barriers round of the FA Cup in January. Oxford’s trip to Abbey Stadium was destined to prove every bit as tense. After a frantic, physical start that was typical of both the Varsity matches in which I have played, Oxford nearly went ahead in the sixth minute but were denied to Entry by the crossbar. Cambridge weathered the storm and with 10 minutes remaining of the first half scored on the counterattack. In the second half Oxford continued As a 17-year-old, the odds were stacked against state-educated boys to press and finally, in the 75th minute, like Alan Bennett (1954, History) getting into Oxbridge. Sixty years on, Ezra Rubenstein’s free kick into a crowd of light and dark blue was deflected into the English education system is still unfair. the bottom corner to even the scores. Having found their swagger, Oxford applied pressure for the remainder of the game, but couldn’t find the winning

32 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 33 Private opportunity too went begging. I am not education is seemingly not to be touched. altogether sure why. When the question This I think is because the division education comes up there is always talk of the between state and private education is social disruption that would result, as now taken for granted. Which doesn't is not fair. if it might be the Dissolution of the mean that it is thought to be fair, only that Those who Monasteries all over again. But would it? there is nothing that can or should be I am not, after all, suggesting that done about it. provide it public schools should be abolished, But if one believes that the nation is but a gradual reform which began with still generous, magnanimous and above all know it. the amalgamation of state and public fair, it is hard not to think that we all know schools at sixth form level, say, ought to that to educate not according to ability Those who be feasible and hardly revolutionary, if but according to the social situation of the pay for it the will is there. parents is both wrong and a waste. And that, of course, is the problem. Private education is not fair. Those know it. Some of this lack of will can be put who provide it know it. Those who down to the unfocused parental anxiety pay for it know it. Those who have to summed up, almost comically now, in sacrifice in order to purchase it know than mine have tackled this problem and Stephen Spender's 1930s poem: it. And those who receive it know it, Alan Bennett on the set of The History Boys movie in 2006 continue to do so and I would be foolish or should, and if their education ends if I claimed to have a solution. But I know My parents kept me from children who without it dawning on them then that I had first seen weekend was the first time I had come thinking bitterly, who had presumably what is part of the problem and that is were rough, education has been wasted. I would also Cambridge when, as a across public schoolboys in the mass played a part in getting them the private education. And who threw words like stones and suggest that if it is not fair, then maybe boy of 17, I had come and I was appalled. They were loud, scholarships most of them had at Oxford My objection to private education wore torn clothes. it's not Christian either. down from Leeds in self-confident and all seemed to know and Cambridge. is simply put. It is not fair. And to say How much our ideas of fairness December 1951 to sit the one another, shouting down the table For them, the scholarship that nothing is fair is not an answer. Class, in a word, still. Less forgivably, owe to Christianity, I am not sure. Souls, scholarship examination to prove it while also being shockingly examination – from which I'd just Governments, even this one, exist to there is a reluctance to share more after all, are equal in the sight of God in History, staying the weekend in the greedy. Public school they might be, but managed to scrape a place – had almost make the nation's circumstances more widely (and thus to dilute) the undoubted and thus deserving of what these days is college of my first choice, Sidney Sussex. they were louts. been a formality. They had been schooled fair, but no government, whatever its advantages of a private education: called a level playing field. The place and the university Seated at long refectory tables for it and groomed for the interviews complexion, has dared to tackle private smaller classes, better facilities and still, This is certainly not the case in bowled me over. Leeds, where I had beneath the mellow portraits of Tudor that followed, with the scholarships and education. It might have been feasible at seemingly, a greater chance of getting to education and never has been, but that been born and brought up, was like the and Stewart grandees, neat, timorous exhibitions that ensued almost to be the time of the Butler reforms in 1944 university. Still – and this is not to discount doesn't mean we shouldn't go on trying. other great Northern cities still intact in and genteel, we grammar school boys taken for granted. This was Oxford and but there were other things going on. the many excellent schools in the state Isn't it time we made a proper start? 1951, but though I was not blind to its were the interlopers; these slobs, as they Cambridge after all; they were entitled. If The Labour government in 1945 sector – a child of average ability is likely architectural splendours, it was a soot- seemed to me, the party in possession. I felt this was wrong, which I did, it was could have tried, but it had a great deal to do better at a good public school. This article is based on the “Sermon blackened, wholly 19th-century city and But it was a party, seemingly, that not at that time an altruistic feeling. I was to do besides. There was not another Another reason why there is a lack Before the University” given by Alan as a boy I was famished for antiquity. I was going to be allowed to join as, thinking of myself and how the odds were chance until 1997, when Labour's huge of will and a reluctance to meddle – a Bennett at King’s College Chapel, I had never been in a place of though I was a long way from getting a stacked against me and boys like me. majority would have at least allowed reluctance, one has to say, that does not Cambridge in June 2014. It is reproduced such continuous and unfolding beauty as scholarship, Sidney Sussex offered me I took some comfort, as I think a start, except that the prime minister protect the state sector where scarcely here in abridged form by kind permission Cambridge and, December 1951 being a place to read History, to come up after educators did generally, in assuming that had been a public schoolboy himself a week passes without some new of Alan Bennett. For the full sermon visit exceptionally cold, the Cam was frozen my national service. this situation must inevitably alter and and seemingly a happy one, so that initiative being announced – is that private the King’s College website. over and a thick hoarfrost covered every Having done basic training in the that the proportion of undergraduates court and quadrangle, giving the whole infantry, I was then sent on a course from state schools at Oxford and 70 city an unreal and celestial beauty. to learn Russian, a year of which was Cambridge would gradually overtake that 60 We were examined in the Senate spent out of uniform. It was a heady from public schools until they were both House, the interior of which, had it been atmosphere, more so in some ways than properly and proportionately represented. 50 in Leeds, would have been sequestered university, where many of my colleagues It was only when, as time passed, 40 behind red ropes, and I went to evensong were headed after national service. Some this didn't happen that what in my case in King's, astonished that one could just of them were disconcertingly clever; had begun as a selfish and even plaintive 30 walk in and be seated in the choir stalls. boys from public schools who, when they grievance, hardened to take in not just 20 Interviewed by the kindly dons at talked of their schooldays, often had in entrance to Oxford and Cambridge, but Privately educated (%) Privately Sidney Sussex, I was for the first time the background a master whose teaching access to higher education in general, 10 conscious of having a Northern accent. had been memorable and about whom with the scramble for university places Sources: Social 0 Mobility and Child If the dons were genial, some of they told anecdotes and whose sayings more desperate year by year. And this is UK Senior Senior Permanent Leading The Lords FTSE 100 Sunday Team GB Poverty Commission, my fellow candidates were less so. That they remembered; teachers, I remember to say nothing of the cost. Better minds population judges armed secretaries journalists cabinet senior Times 2012 Sutton Trust, Equal forces executives Rich List Olympic Approach officers medallists

34 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 35 take pupils from many miles away – one Increasing Demand: of her daughter's friends has a journey of two hours each way. It can be hard • In recent years, grammar schools have increased their reach. for them to see each other, even at weekends. However, their schools are • In 1985 there were 175 grammar schools across England, among the very best in the country, with educating 3.2% of the population. excellent exam results. Many pupils go on to leading universities. • By last year there were 163, but they educated 5.1% of secondary Ms Randall hopes her younger school pupils. daughter, who's nine, could benefit from the new grammar annexe and believes it would be a "positive move". "Many parents would support it," she says. now we have over 100 people applying decision to build both schools together Sarah Shilling, of the Sevenoaks every year." She believes the 11 plus had been agreed with the Education Grammar School Campaign, believes exam unfairly decides a child's future. "I Funding Agency, a branch of the parents would welcome a new girls' think children are badged when they're Department for Education. school, "but we're only half way there. told they've failed the 11 plus – and also Some doubt whether a new site To get the whole way we need our boys when they're told not to bother sitting it 10 miles away from the main school, What Next for the catered for, too." at all. So you're deciding a child's future along a busy main road, can really be Many opponents of grammar when they're barely 11." seen as an extension. Robert McCartney schools – like Sir Michael Wilshaw, the The advantage of Knole Academy QC, chairman of the National Grammar Grammar School? Ofsted chief inspector – nonetheless is that children get a second chance. Schools Association, believes it cannot, support streaming within schools, Georgia, 14, failed the 11 plus by and that it will, in effect, be a new teaching by ability groups. just a few marks in Maths, so she came school. But he would like to see the law In Sevenoaks one multi-ability to Knole. After a year, she was promoted changed so that new grammars can be A political hot potato is making headlines again, writes Sanchia Berg school is using this approach to into the grammar stream. Now she's set up. "That applies to all other types of (1982, English), BBC Education and Home Affairs Correspondent. challenge the grammar schools on their hoping to be a solicitor, and would like school," he says, "why not grammars?" own turf. In a year eight art class at to go to Cambridge. If the annexe is approved, it would Knole Academy, 13-year-old Mustafa "I've slowly worked my way up and send a positive signal to other schools works on a piece of pop art. He tells me I'm on target to get good grades in my and other local authorities seeking to The issue of grammar In an alternative approach, the schools. In the past, Prime Minister he's only just arrived at the school, he GCSEs" she said. "I wouldn't change my expand their grammar provision. schools remains a hardy town's Knole Academy has created its David Cameron has not supported had been at one of the most selective school for the world." Labour believes approval would perennial in the education own "grammar stream". According to grammars either – seeing them as grammars in Kent. He doesn't see any As yet no pupils in the grammar show the Conservatives have moved to debate. It is one which is head teacher Mary Boyle, this is not divisive. However, he said recently that difference at all: "We're learning the stream have sat any public examinations: the right of the political spectrum. very much alive in Kent, just a "top set", but grammar school all good schools – including grammars same things. I think this school might Georgia's year will be the first to sit GCSEs. "David Cameron once said that where 20% of pupils still teaching. She has promised parents – should be able to expand. The current even be better." He'd had a long journey Many parents remain sceptical. selective education was unpopular with go to grammar schools. The growing and pupils they will study academic Education Secretary Nicky Morgan has to school before, taking two trains. Now "Generally speaking, if a child passes parents and that parents did not believe population and rising demand for places subjects "with rigour" and "in depth". yet to make a decision. it is a quick bus ride. the 11 plus both the child and their it was right for children to be divided has led many Kent grammar schools to Her grammar stream pupils are aiming Parents in Sevenoaks have been Mary Boyle tells me that initially parents want to go to a grammar into successes and failures at 11," said expand. This reflects the national picture. at the best universities, including Oxford campaigning for many years for new parents were sceptical. "When we set school" said Sarah Randall. "And in Tristram Hunt, the shadow education Although the number of grammar schools and Cambridge. grammar provision in their town. Sarah it up we invited prospective parents to Kent there is the 11 plus – it's not going secretary. "But now his government has remained stable for decades, the According to opinion polls, support Randall, a teacher living in Sevenoaks, come along. We had three turn up. But away. Given that, and the increasing looks set to sign off on the first new number of pupils has risen. for grammar schools remains constant. A has two older children who go to school population, it seems crazy that there grammar school in 50 years. Not Kent County Council, one of the recent YouGov survey, published in The in Tonbridge every day. Her daughter, isn't another grammar school being built even Margaret Thatcher approved the largest local authorities in England, Times, indicated that 54% of people said aged 12, travels by bus. That can take “Not even Margaret in Sevenoaks". expansion of selective education. This is says there is no more room for popular they would support a new grammar in 80 minutes each way. Her son, aged 13, The leader of Kent County Council, more evidence that he has abandoned grammars in Tonbridge and Tunbridge response to "demonstrated local demand". takes the train. The journey takes less Thatcher approved Paul Carter, has urged the education the centre ground." Wells to expand. That's why the council UKIP’s election manifesto promised a time – between 40 minutes and an hour secretary to approve the new grammar has been supporting the creation of grammar school in every town. – but it costs £500 a year. the expansion of school annexe quickly. He says it could This article was originally published an annexe of Weald of Kent girls' The former education secretary The children have a lot of selective education.” cost his council £4.5 million if it does by the BBC in March 2015. It is school in Sevenoaks – a town that has Michael Gove did not support the homework, and the travel means they not go ahead. Contractors are already reproduced here slightly abridged with no grammar school of its own. It is a creation of new grammars – instead have little time for extra-curricular Tristram Hunt working on the site, which will also house kind permission of Sanchia Berg and controversial step. he focused on improving non-selective activities during the week. Their schools a new free school. Mr Carter says the the BBC.

36 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 37 Schools Failing Across the world, children of immigrants are underachieving Immigrant Pupils academically. Akshat Rathi (2008, Organic Chemistry) asks why. Immigrant students The key question is what happens countries such as Japan and Korea, as and those from poor over time, perhaps over a generation well as in Finland, have promoted quality Is education the great leveller? backgrounds living in or two. But, he said, “This is in no way teaching and helped reduce disparities in The divide between rich and poor students grows as students developed countries are an excuse for situations where there is learning, creating a level playing field for go to higher classes, even in developed countries being failed by the school direct evidence of unfair treatment of students from different social class. system and face a high recent immigrant students.” Policy interventions to address Richest Poorest risk of marginalisation, according to a A 2013 report by the Coram discrepancies between ethnic groups can UNESCO report. Children’s Legal Centre pointed to be difficult to get political attention. When England Norway United Italy Hungary Australia New Data from the 2009 results of the children of some migrants being denied it comes to analysis of achievement of 100 States Zealand OECD’s Programme for International access to education and housing. different ethnic groups, David Gilborn, Student Assessment (PISA) shows Their analysis found that in England, professor of critical race studies at the gap between rich and poor children the University of Birmingham, said 90 that only 60% of French 15-year-old students pass the minimum benchmark achieving minimum levels in maths grows race equality isn’t currently taken very for reading if they are immigrants. This as they progress through school. At grade seriously in debates around education in

80 is the same proportion achieved by an four (nine-year-olds), the gap was 8%, but the UK. “I think certainly over the last few average Mexican student. Non-immigrant it was 19% by grade eight (13-year-olds). years, policymakers have not just taken students in France fare much better, with their eye off the ball in terms of inclusive 70 82% achieving that benchmark. education. They’ve removed it from the Similarly, reading levels of 250 million of agenda all together.” England’s immigrant students are on par Gilborn has worked on the Students achieving minimum benchmark (%) minimum benchmark Students achieving 60 with an average student in Turkey, and the world’s 650 differences in attainment between Germany’s are on par with an average children of black Caribbean heritage student in Chile. million primary and the national average, which he said Grade 4 Grade 8 Grade 4 Grade 8 Grade 4 Grade 8 Grade 4 Grade 8 Grade 4 Grade 8 Grade 4 Grade 8 Grade 4 Grade 8 According to Stephen Gorard, school-age remain pronounced. “Education policy Data: EFA Global Monitoring Report 2014 professor of education and public policy at at the moment is dominated by a kind Durham University, “On average economic children are not of colour-blind rhetoric that emphasises Immigration and education migrants and refugees from less educated learning the standards and choice and, if anything, talk 90 Germany social backgrounds may tend to do worse, about inclusion and social justice tends non-immigrants wherever they go.” He said that when basics of reading to emphasise a particular view of white UK non-immigrants France UNESCO quotes difference in attainment students being the race victims,” he said. Germany non-immigrants and maths. The UNESCO report points out UK average rates for immigrants in different countries, average 80 “it is important to bear in mind how that 250 million of the world’s 650 million France average developed these countries are and where primary school-age children are not Turkey average the influx is from.” New Zealand has similar disparities, learning the basics of reading and maths. This comparison between with only two thirds of poor students The researchers put the cost of this to UK immigrants immigrants and non-immigrants may mask achieving standards, compared to nearly all governments at $129 billion, or 10% of 70 Chile issues over first-generation immigrants rich students. In Australia, the problem has global spending on primary education. average studying in a second language. Gorard persisted for more than a decade, with two Germany said factors of social class are of thirds of indigenous grade eight students immigrants Mexico key importance. Where new children achieving the minimum level in maths This article was originally published average 60 perform worse at school than their between 1994-5 and 2011, compared to in The Conversation, an independent 15-year-olds achieving minimum benchmark (%) minimum benchmark achieving 15-year-olds Immigrant students in rich countries indigenous peers, “this is not necessarily a 90% of non-indigenous students. media outlet specialising in content France perform worse than students from immigrants consequence of their immigrant status or Such discrepancies are not sourced from the academic and middle-income countries their treatment by others.” inevitable. Policies in East Asian research community.

50 Data: EFA Global Monitoring Report 2014

38 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 39 Education for education’s From Education sake is important. But people are also asking to Entrepreneurship "what am I going to get Beatrice Natzler (2013, PPE): Has out of it?" there been a change in the role of university in preparing people for the job market? BN: Do you think a degree is important for a career in enterprise?

Matthew Hancock: I think that there is MH: There are undoubtedly other paths people can take, but a change under way. People are more not necessarily. Here, for example, the Saïd Business School demanding of their universities and of the has fantastic facilities for supporting students across the teaching that they get, and quite rightly so. University who want to get involved in all sorts of projects. At People are also looking to make sure they the same time, some of the best and most enterprising people spend their time at university getting not in the world either didn’t go to the world’s best universities, only the academic credentials, but also the soft skills that or left them before completing their degree. Still, having that can help in a career. space in the University where people can take an idea and try to make a business of it, whether that’s a traditional business I think this change took place because of a combination or a social enterprise, is very important. of the increase in university fees and the recession, which made people worry about how they would get a job after graduating. What is interesting is that a rise in fees has led BN: After leaving university you first worked for to an increase in the proportion of young people applying to your family’s software company. At the time what university and an increase to record levels in the proportion was the level of careers support at Exeter like, and of people from disadvantaged backgrounds applying to how does it compare now? university. This is partly because people can see that you don’t pay anything back until you earn £21,000. It is a one- MH: There was a careers service, but the question was way bet for a young person: if you get a good job you pay it simply whether you were going to become a banker or a back; if you don’t, you don’t. management consultant! That was where the focus used to lie, particularly before the financial crash. Since the recession, attitudes have changed, partly through a more BN: Many people would agree with the point personal careers service, like the one you have in College, you make about soft skills: that the value of a and partly by being more broad-minded in terms of what university education does not merely lie in the graduates can go on to do. content of the course, but in the transferable skills people gain. Is there also an argument for It is interesting that Teach First is now one of the biggest education for education’s sake? employers of university graduates. They’ve taken the same approach the management consultants and bankers used MH: Yes. One of the most important roles of education is to have, which is to make applying very easy and to say to make sure you have what it takes to have a successful to people, “just do it for two years, and see how it goes.” Matthew Hancock MP (1996, PPE), Minister for the Cabinet Office career. But it is not the only role of education. To have a This means you don’t have to make an active decision to and Paymaster General, visited 100 businesses in 100 days in space in our country and to have a time in your life when become a teacher, you simply have to make a decision you engage in education for education’s sake is important. to try that out for a while. It becomes the path of least the run-up to the General Election in his capacity as then Minister But undoubtedly people are also asking “what am I going to resistance for high-flying graduates. of State for Business and Enterprise. He took time out to share his get out of it?”, and that’s entirely understandable. The two can go hand in hand. As with many “either…or” questions, views on the evolving role university education and the government balance is the best answer. play in the career paths of students.

40 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 41 The Value of Education

Investing in education is betting on your future earnings. Better guidance is needed, argues David Chivers, Lecturer Matthew Hancock speaking in London in the run-up to the General Election in Economics.

BN: How do you envisage the future of the job I do think in the UK we need to be more like the US in market for graduates in 20 years’ time? terms of being forgiving of failure, so that we applaud people for having a go at starting an enterprise, whether The recent debate delay earning money now to enter higher the best students, regardless of their MH: I hope it’s really strong! or not it is successful. surrounding UK tuition education so that they may benefit the backgrounds. If we have a smaller pool fees has raised important economy as a whole in the future. of applicants because people are worried I think the idea of a job market will change: increasingly the questions as to who The problem with this argument about the cost of university, we are not question is “what will I do with my time?” rather than “what should pay for university is that there is already a financial going to produce the best economists, is the job I will do?” It’s a long time since the 9 to 5 job education. We know incentive to go to university: people lawyers or doctors possible, for example. became the exception rather than the rule. If anything, this All the greatest mistakes that higher education is important for a who leave education after completing However, under the current is because of changes in technology and how we live our whole host of reasons that contribute an undergraduate degree typically loan system, those who earn more will lives. So I envisage people choosing between going to start in my life have been from to society other than simply increasing earn 27% more than those who leave end up paying back more. There are up their own business (which is certainly not a 9 to 5 job), or economic growth. It is difficult to put a education after completing A levels or also numerous scholarships available spending a few years working internationally, or working on taking no for an answer. value on education, but it is important equivalent. So if potential higher wages for students from disadvantaged a social enterprise, or on a combination of these things. that we look at the economics of already encourage students to attend backgrounds. This topic is of particular university education in order to inform university, there is no point in subsidising interest to me as I have recently published our view on how we should fund it. this decision. One could even argue it a paper that suggests it is the perception BN: It is quite a challenge for people lacking I teach macroeconomics at is unfair that those who do not go to of debt and the risks associated with funding to set up a business. Would you advise BN: How do you think we could encourage that? Exeter, and we explore how education university are subsidising those who do. debt that may deter some students from aspiring entrepreneurs to earn money before (or, in economics speak, human capital What complicates matters further lower-income backgrounds from investing launching their enterprise? MH: Mainly through a cultural shift, although also through accumulation) can explain long-run is that the decision to go to university will in higher education. One solution to this support from the government: we don’t expect by any economic performance. In fact, there be affected by your family’s background problem is to have an independent body MH: No! Go for it. There’s a big increase in the number means to get money back from all the loans. Also, more is an abundance of empirical research and level of income. Students from the that provides information on the outcome of people who are starting businesses whilst at university, broadly we want to be in favour of people who have failed which suggests education positively most disadvantaged backgrounds are of various courses, such as the average because then you’ve got the funding you need to live your in an enterprise picking up and starting again. affects economic growth. over 13 times less likely to go to the UK’s starting salary and employability after life, and you can have the time to put into starting a business. Given the importance of education to most prestigious universities than those graduation. There is also the start-up loan scheme, which has now given the economy, there is an implication that we from the wealthiest backgrounds. High There are far more benefits to out 25,000 loans. It is precisely aimed at people who don’t BN: One bit of advice for aspiring entrepreneurs? as a society should contribute to funding tuition fees may act as a potential barrier education than economic growth or a have resources of their own, but have an idea, and want to future generations of doctors, lawyers and for some students; but leaving aside the financial return on investment. However, have a shot at turning it into a business. There’s increasing MH: Go for it. Don’t take no for an answer. All the (most importantly) economists. This would important question of fairness, deterring it is important that students have as amounts of support available, through that, and through other greatest mistakes in my life have been from taking no suggest that higher education should be good students is inefficient in the long run. much information as possible before angel investors, to help people go straight for it. for an answer. free for those studying: the logic being that When conducting interviews they decide whether to embark on a we want to encourage young people to for potential undergraduates, I want university education.

42 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 43 pain from next academic year will be Cuts to higher education funding have met with vociferous opposition the elimination of a stream of funding which for some years has supported the relatively high cost of Oxford’s tutorial teaching system (likewise Cambridge will lose its analogous income stream). Also, in this respect like English universities generally, Oxford must cope with the elimination, from 2016-17, of the grants which support the living costs of Home undergraduates from the poorest families. There will be loans to compensate, but research has shown that the availability of maintenance A referendum on continued UK membership of the EU is creating uncertainty for grants has helped to persuade such the future of higher education aspiring undergraduates to apply. Still, at Oxford the University and the colleges Concerning teaching quality, this context, it is sobering to learn – as have invested in bursaries which should the Conservative manifesto promised this article goes to press – that because preserve Oxford’s position as the most a “Teaching Excellence Framework” of Government cuts in the English financially attractive university for (TEF) in order to incentivise first-rate higher education budget (part of the applicants from socially disadvantaged teaching. UK universities have coped Chancellor’s attempts to bring down the backgrounds. for a decade with the National Student deficit in the Government’s accounts) the The election result of 7 May also Survey (NSS), which measures student University of Oxford will lose in excess of has consequences for immigration policy satisfaction. Universities have been £2m of government funding allocated to The Implications of the General and thus for the ability of a leading eager to score well, not least because the coming academic year and more than university such as Oxford to recruit and NSS scores have been powerful drivers £500,000 of the allocation previously retain the best staff and students. The of the newspaper league tables of UK made for the 2014/15 academic year. Election on Higher Education Coalition Government introduced many universities. Oxford, like Cambridge, has Yet with regard to the debate further restrictions on such immigration done especially well in the NSS. But about the ways in which the general and compelled each university to police the TEF may incorporate the concept policies of the new Government will Rector Rick Trainor contemplates the outlook for education in a climate the visa status and regular attendance of “added value”: its implications for be implemented, Oxford will no doubt of their non-EU students and the country’s most selective institutions continue to contribute, collectively, of fiscal austerity and political uncertainty. employees on pain of losing altogether are particularly unclear. Clarifications alongside other universities from all the institution’s right to recruit from on these issues will be important: the parts of the higher education sector, outside the European Union. Since Government has said that only those and through the expertise of its As I write in late July, two current £9,000 per year to £6,000. autumn’s overall spending review, the the election there have been signs of universities which score well on the TEF individual academics. Such debates and a half months after If Labour had won, universities would Chancellor announced nine-figure cuts further restrictions, notably concerning will be allowed to increase fees above will help to determine how far the the General Election, its have been reliant on the Government in spending on higher education. the ability of those from outside the EU £9,000 in line with inflation. recent change in political “weather” implications for higher making up the shortfall from other Spending on research may be “ring who gain UK degrees to remain in the Do these emerging policies really will result in serious storms rather than education are necessarily revenue, which in turn would have been fenced”: if so this would be good news country after graduation, a key issue matter to Oxford? As I’m not (at time of a few soaking squalls! The hope will unclear. However, already constrained by Labour’s commitment for research-intensive institutions such as in determining the country in which writing) involved in such discussions at be that – alongside the more general there are important changes, and signs to reduce the country’s budget deficit. Oxford. This university emerged from last overseas students enrol. the university level, I can only speculate. claims of the university system – the of others to come, which are likely to be Such calculations matter because the year’s Research Excellence Framework There is also concern in academic Further immigration questions – a focal widely accepted national strategic significant for universities in England. It increase in fees, from £3,375 to £9,000 with more money, for the underlying costs circles about another consequence of point of the Vice-Chancellor’s oration last importance of the country’s leading should be kept in mind that universities for new undergraduate entrants from of research, than any other institution. the election: a referendum by the end October – are highly likely to concern research universities, and the particular the world over are always wary about 2012-13, in effect simply compensated Yet the new higher education minister, Jo of 2017 on continued UK membership a university many of whose staff and prominence of Oxbridge, will moderate government policies, and this would institutions for simultaneous large Johnson, said in a speech in mid-July that of the EU. A “no” vote might mean students come from outside the EU. the impact of those announcements of have been true in the UK whatever had reductions in Government teaching the Government would introduce audits that many additional countries would With regard to money, as a leading world the new Government which are currently happened on 7 May. So this is not a grants to universities. of strengths in science and innovation be excluded from free entry to the university in an increasingly competitive causing concern. In this important partisan essay! Yet the new Conservative majority across the country in the face of the 46% UK. Also, UK universities have been higher education world, Oxford has to sense, Oxford’s numerous friends – and Voters consigned to oblivion Government has brought significant of public investment in research which especially successful in recent years cope with cost pressures (arising for its many donors – will hope that the a major Labour policy for higher fiscal stringency from another direction: currently goes to the “golden triangle” of in their collective share of rising example from the very high and rapidly University and its colleges can, with their education – the reduction of the Chancellor George Osborne’s deficit Oxford, Cambridge and London. EU research income. Yet the EU rising price of housing in the city) which continued help, weather any “turbulence” maximum undergraduate fee for reduction measures. Before his July Other new measures must also membership debate will of course deal put its effective inflation rate well above ahead just as they have weathered so UK and other EU students from the Budget, and well in advance of this be taken into account. One source of with a much broader range of issues! the currently low national counterpart. In many in the past.

44 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 45 A view of the Zin Valley in the Negev, Israel

Ben-Gurion University students

infrastructure for the biotech industry in the Negev. Since its inception, the NIBN has moved from strength to strength, and earlier this year the new Edgar de Picciotto and Family Buildings at the NIBN were opened, providing state-of- Peace in the Negev the-art facilities for the research staff. What science has the NIBN produced and how has it contributed Raymond Dwek, Emeritus Fellow in Biochemistry, reports to peace? Rivka Carmi, a distinguished on the “Oxford in the Negev” that is driving peace through geneticist, was massively influential in putting the Institute on a firm academic education and science. footing and establishing the principle The National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev of scientific outreach at NIBN. Rivka, who was previously Dean of the Medical The Negev region of team of the research programmes at the technologies that strengthened the School, had initiated a programme of minorities. Indeed BGU’s outreach also Boqer sit on a plateau overlooking Israel is a vast and Institute of Applied BioSciences (IAB). weaker sectors of society and helped to mapping genes specific to the Bedouin appealed to Oxford Brookes University, the spectacular landscape of Israel’s spectacular desert The Institute had been established by build bridges with Israel's neighbours. community prior to her appointment who set up a similar course. I felt that largest desert canyon, the Zin Canyon. covering 60% of the a donation from a Swiss banker, Edgar I saw these challenges and felt that as director of NIBN in 2002. Her work this was a fitting tribute to the New Israel Committed to achieving sustainable country’s land mass, de Picciotto. He had met and been science could also help in building these expanded into one of the main research that was emerging in the Negev. These desert ecosystems and stemming the but home to only 8% influenced by the charismatic Avishay bridges, particularly with the support of themes of NIBN and resulted in an scholarships were praised as a way of spread of desertification, the location of the country’s population. Historically Braverman, a Stanford-educated World Oxford University, which has traditionally immediate benefit in health care in the helping the peace process in the House of the Institutes is more than an the Negev was considered to be an Bank economist, who in the 15 years been accepted by all peoples in the Bedouin communities. The research of Lords in July 2011. inspiration: it is an ideal laboratory for uninhabitable territory whose main of his tenure as President of BGU region as a centre of excellence and of programmes implemented in the Today the NIBN is directed by studying a variety of ecosystems that importance was strategic and political. transformed what resembled a small local neutrality in politics. NIBN in collaboration with the Soroka Varda Shoshan-Barmatz who leads an converge in the Negev desert. Since Today, travellers on the ancient Nabatean college into an internationally recognised In 1996, the Institute of Applied University Medical Centre have led to Institute which now includes over 230 dryland ecosystems cover nearly half spice trail would encounter at Beer BioSciences was based in two “huts”. It the development of massive carrier staff, including 26 Principal Investigators of the earth's land surface, the mission Sheva, capital city of the Negev region, was clear that if biotechnology was to testing and pre-natal diagnostic efforts, and 150 research students. Their of making deserts productive and the very modern Ben-Gurion University "Science is be used to develop the Negev then the as well as educational strategies for research today covers a wide range of comfortable places to live is a task of (BGU) of the Negev. science had to become more ambitious those Bedouin communities at risk interests including cancer therapies, stunning significance. The Institute BGU’s foundation was based on beyond nation, and investment in infrastructure was from the genetic problems arising from computational biotechnology, human at Sede Boqer trains around 150 the vision of its namesake, David Ben- sorely needed. I became the Advisor consanguineous marriages. In the first genetic disorders, and novel antibiotics. students each year from all over the Gurion, the founder of the State of Israel above politics on Biotechnology to the President of five years of the joint initiative, infant In addition to being a biotechnology world, including those from Palestine and its first Prime Minister. David Ben- and can unite BGU, a post which I have held ever mortality in the Bedouin community hub, research at BGU is at the centre of and Jordan, with the aim of developing Gurion was deeply inspired by Oxford since, and have encouraged the support has decreased by 25%. Rivka Carmi water technology. Over a billion people and sharing water technologies. These and wished to create “Oxford in the and heal." of transformational and translational went on to become President of BGU worldwide do not have access to clean technologies include nano-filtration to Negev”. Strategically located at the axis Matthew Gould science. Edgar de Picciotto and the Israeli in 2006 and maintained her support water, and the tensions created by lack of improve water resources of marginal point between Egypt, Jordan and Israel, government provided the infrastructure for minorities. In 2010, in recognition of water are a major contributing factor to civil quality, cleaning domestic greywater BGU has become a leader in cooperative investment through their funding of the Rivka’s achievements and the nature of unrest and war. Here science can play a using bacteria and efficient methods for research projects, with world-leading institution of higher education. de National Institute of Biotechnology in BGU’s outreach policies, a scholarship key role in promoting peace through the desalination. It is initiatives such as this departments of Biotechnology, Cyber Picciotto’s dream – to create what he the Negev (NIBN). I agreed with Edgar’s was endowed in her name for students development of technologies to produce that inspired HM Ambassador to Israel Technology and Water Research. called "A New Israel in the Negev" vision, that the NIBN would bridge the from BGU to do a Master’s degree at clean water and preserve scarce resources. Matthew Gould when he stated that I arrived at BGU in late 1996, – extended this transformation even gap between basic and applied research, Exeter College, with preference given to The Blaustein Institutes for Desert “science is beyond nation, above politics as part of an international peer review further, investing in people, ideas and and would help establish a scientific candidates who are women and/or from Research at BGU's campus in Sede and can unite and heal”.

46 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 47 Hungry for education: a Learning for Life classroom Those Who Can, Teach

Putting off a career decision, June Stevenson (2000, PPE) tried teaching. It proved the making of her.

Heading into Hilary Term of my third such an important and stimulating sector. year, vaguely starting to wonder what a Teach First has expanded multiple times from that management consultant or a corporate first year of 180 teachers across 50 London secondary lawyer might do, my good friend and co- schools, now also covering primary and nursery phases, as PPEist Amy Clarke (2000) told me about well as a growing number of regions across England. This a radical new scheme she’d just been year the charity will recruit 2,000 new teachers. selected for. Teach for two years in an inner city London It has also expanded its vision. That first summer Here Come the Girls secondary school – with just six weeks of training! Make a training institute, we debated how long it would be before difference! Do something that sounds thrillingly dangerous the scheme could elevate the teaching profession such Learning for Life seeks to empower through education, writes yet also impressively socially responsible! I think I mainly that it would no longer need this clever recruitment tool. Charlotte Bannister-Parker, Catechist of Exeter College Chapel. heard “Defer your career ponderings for a couple of years.” Perhaps five years we wondered? Maybe 10? I joined her in signing up to “Teach First”, and by Nowadays it’s probably more appropriate to talk September found myself in a Croydon classroom with of a “movement”. Teach First’s big vision is for a country I founded the charity Learning for Life Back in London, I came up with the idea of 90% of a teacher’s timetable and perhaps (generously) where a child’s parental income is no longer a barrier to in 1994 with the aim of developing girls’ Learning for Life: a charity that did not arrive with 10% of a clue what to do with it. Unsurprisingly I found their chances of success. Depressingly, in England the link education in India and Pakistan. Twenty-one preconceived ideas about what was needed or move on that first year in the classroom very challenging. Anyone between socio-economic background and poor educational years on, we have expanded our commitment before problems were resolved; a charity that responded considering teaching would do well to watch the BBC achievement is greater than in almost any other developed and vision, working with street children as well to what women needed and tried to make each project documentary Tough Young Teachers for a pretty real country, so it’s a huge task. as impoverished communities across South self-sustaining. portrayal of how hard it can be. Relentless daily failure can Teacher recruitment remains the foundation from Asia, Afghanistan, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Nepal. When I hear back from women such as Tauhida be hard to stomach, perhaps even more so when your own which Teach First operates, but of course pursuing such a At its core, Learning for Life exists to Akter, who have benefitted from the schooling seemed so straightforward. grand ambition means it’s vital for all of us “ambassadors” help those who would otherwise have work that we do, I feel that we have But the rewards! I thoroughly enjoyed the next three to play our part. After four years, I moved on from teaching no education: because they live in “If you educate achieved this initial objective. Tauhida, years once I understood how to be a good teacher: the to help set up a support service for school leaders, and remote areas, have the misfortune of from Cox’s Bazar in Bangladesh, joy of leading great learning experiences, the fun of daily have also relished the challenges of school governorship at being female, or are refugees. It targets a woman, you worked as a child labourer in a interactions with young people, the intense highs of seeing two different schools. Some of my 2003 cohort have gone deep-rooted discrimination to provide educate a family. fish drying plant before enrolling the difference you make, moment by moment… then onto school leadership and headship, and some have set an education for all. at Learning for Life’s Catch Up leading on to the satisfaction of mentoring and training up education charities (check out Jamie’s Farm, PEAS or Having completed my Master's If you educate a Education Centre. As a result of the other new teachers, directing a department, taking on First Story, for example). Wherever our day jobs have taken thesis on the empowerment of women education provided, Tauhida has more school-wide responsibilities. I looked back in shame us, those formative years in teaching have inspired and through beekeeping in an area north girl, you educate received a general scholarship from that it had taken a glitzy grad scheme to draw me in to helped shape us all. of Kathmandu in collaboration with the future.” the Government Primary Education ActionAid, I spent the following years Board and passed the entrance test working for charities in India, which Queen Rania of Jordan at the Government Girl’s High School. exposed me to the endemic sexual She aspires to become a doctor. discrimination in South Asia. When Female education has gained I arrived in Delhi, I had no idea what the next six months renewed attention on the global stage with the story of would hold. I heard stories of dowry death (the killing of Malala Yousafzai, the young Pakistani activist for female young wives to gain a dowry from a second marriage), education who was shot by the Taliban on a local bus. In sati (the burning of widows on the funeral pyre of their her 2013 speech to the UN, she highlighted the importance husbands), Eve teasing (sexual harassment of unmarried of female education, saying that “one child, one teacher, women on the streets) and girls being physically harmed so one pen and one book can change the world.” Learning for that they could beg on the streets of Delhi. The subservient Life shares this sentiment, and continues its work across status of women and girls in India was all too clear and South Asia, for which it recently won an award at the Bond ignited my passion to rectify this inequality. International Development Awards.

48 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 49 Giving Something Back The Power of Regular Giving

By naming buildings after major benefactors, Exeter is able Katherine Fieldgate, Annual Fund Officer, reveals how vital to recognise the generosity of donors and the tradition of one regular gifts of any size are to the College and its students. generation of Exonians supporting the next. Katrina Hancock (1998, Earth Sciences), Director of Development. "Would you consider them to break down a more substantial members of the popular 1314 Society do), making a regular gift?" gift, whatever that might be, into smaller, the cumulative total of your giving quickly In March this more manageable amounts they can adds up to a significant sum and enables phrase reverberated spread over time. For example, making a Exeter to provide more opportunities and around the Rector’s gift of £750 can understandably seem support for students. Dining Room – the a daunting and impossible prospect for Turning back to the Rector’s Dining telethon campaign’s headquarters – many recent graduates. Yet by dividing Room in March, I am pleased to say that as a team of student callers spoke to this into donations of £10 a month with 25% of the alumni to whom we spoke did Exonians around the world. Gift Aid for five years, this initially distant indeed establish a regular gift – up from All donations made to the College sum soon becomes a reality and, crucially, 4% last year. Whatever your motivation are vital in enhancing the Exeter could provide three internship grants may be, I hope that you will too. Architect design concept of the Dakota Café, experience for students, whether those for students to undertake valuable work named for Bart Holaday’s family foundation. donations support bursaries, books or the experience opportunities. Whether you To make a regular gift to Exeter College Boat Club. You may therefore ask why give £10 a month or £1,314 a year (as visit www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/giving What do Ivan Margary, “Acland Hall”, but instead you will see To that end, as we see the new regular gifts in particular are so important. Thomas Wood, John the subtle use of his coat of arms quadrangle at Walton Street rise up, we Regular gifts – that is monthly and Peryam, and the throughout the building. will celebrate the generosity of Sir Ronald annual donations made automatically The importance Rhodes Scholars of And the generosity of Exeter’s Cohen for whose parents “Cohen Quad” usually via direct debit – are the Saskatchewan all have in Saskatchewan Rhodes Scholars is will be named. There will also be the foundation of the College’s fundraising of reliable common? Each of them commemorated in the naming of the Dakota Café, named for Bart Holaday income. Each financial year these gifts income for the has a quadrangle, buildings, or a room Saskatchewan Room, which proudly (his family foundation is the “Dakota provide a source of dependable income named for them in honour of generous displays a plaque celebrating the gifts Foundation”) and we will be looking for that allows Exeter to plan for the future College cannot gifts that transformed the College. given by this group of alumni in 1988, other ways to recognise all those who have in terms of the support, teaching and Margary was a chemist whose when staircase nine – or the Crowther given to this latest part of Exeter’s fabric. facilities it can offer. As the Bursar will be overstated. studies at Exeter were interrupted by Hunt Building – was reconstructed It’s not only buildings. Our Law, undoubtedly testify, the importance the First World War. Together with a and refurbished. On this occasion, the English, and History students are taught of reliable income for generous gift from St Osyth ME Wood, building is named for the Rector who by the DM Wolfe, Thompson, and Jackson the College cannot be the College was able to purchase sadly passed away before his vision for Fellows respectively, with other students overstated. Regular Parker’s bookshop and complete the Margary Quadrangle was realised. But taught by those whose Fellowships gifts play a central role College’s second quadrangle. It was just inside the entrance to staircase carry the names of benefactors historic in this security for the named the “Margary Quadrangle” and nine is another plaque to honour and recent – recognition that once College; members of the staircases 12, 13, and 14 were named both the Rhodes Scholars, but also again reminds us of our dependence on Development Office often the “Thomas Wood Building” in honour of Honorary Fellow Stephen Merrett whose philanthropy. The same is true of bursaries point out that an annual gift Mrs Wood’s late husband, an alumnus of generosity completed the building of and scholarships, named for individual of £32.50 is equivalent in the College. this part of the quadrangle. donors or for donors’ loved ones. value to the funds drawn John Peryam, one-time mayor of So the concept of donor It’s a personal choice for each down annually from £1,000 Exeter and brother of a former Fellow, recognition is not new. At Exeter we are donor. Over recent years our Donors’ in the endowment. Sir William Peryam, paid for the building always delighted to celebrate publicly Report has expanded to accommodate But why should a of staircases four and five in 1618 – the the generosity of our donors – where a rapidly growing list of donors. Not only regular gift be important same year that Sir John Acland paid for it is desired. It is a wonderful way of is it good practice to thank our donors to you? When speaking the construction of the new Dining Hall. recognising that we are a family, where publicly, keeping us grounded and to alumni across the Above the doorway of staircase four one generation takes care of the next, grateful, but we hope that it will inspire decades, I have found that you will see the inscription that marks reminding each successive generation others to give too. Over 50% of alumni there is often a common the “Peryam’s Mansions”, in recognition that the College and life we cherish was have made a gift now at some point in motivation behind their of the generous Friend of the College. literally built through the generosity of the last 10 years – and we are delighted regular gift: it enables Equally the Hall could have been named those who came before us. to recognise that support. Members of the March student telethon team

50 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 51 Images (clockwise from top left): Stained windows created by Edward Burne- Jones and William Morris; an architect's rendering of how the Morris rug may look in situ at Cohen Quad; an architect's rendering of a typical seminar room

Something Old, represents such an important part of collegiate living. The College has a long tradition of making use of subterranean space Something New (think of the Saskatchewan, Quarrell, Balsdon and Stapeldon rooms, and the College Bar). Cohen Quad is no The new Cohen Quad will be a marvellous mix of state-of-the-art exception. Its basement will house our facilities and Exeter’s rich heritage, writes Tessa Stanley Price, 30,000 rare books and manuscripts; installations will help to merge Exeter’s student will have a single room with the first time they will have been kept Deputy Director of Development. past, present and future. generous desk space and an en-suite in one place and in climate-controlled “History” is also represented bathroom. Older Exonians will no doubt conditions. An adjacent reading room more literally on the site: one of the be glad to hear that students no longer will open up access to these special Picture the scene: 0th study and relaxation space. The brief for removed from the Rector’s Lodgings to quadrangle’s five ground-floor seminar need to wander down lengthy corridors, collections in an unprecedented way. Week of Michaelmas our architects was therefore to develop be cleaned and restored before being rooms will be named the Maddicott Room nor cross quads to basement bathrooms, All these projects would be no Term 2016, just over a full quadrangle that would represent hung on the ground floor of Cohen Quad, in recognition of the service Dr John to perform their ablutions! The bedrooms more than pipe dreams if it hadn’t been a year from now. Our the “collegiate ideal”, where students and and display units nearby will feature Maddicott, Fellow in History from 1969 are available for naming and many for the enormous generosity of Exeter returning Finalists are scholars live, teach and learn alongside changing exhibitions on College history. to 2006, has given Exeter. Dr Maddicott people have already made donations to alumni and Friends over the last few heaving their belongings each other. The support of a great many Next to the Morris rug will stand a remains active in writing and research, and secure “their” room on the site. years, through gifts large and small. into College after the Long Vac. Nothing alumni and Friends has enabled Exeter to proud acquisition for the new quadrangle: published Founders and Fellowship: The On each residential floor there will Cohen Quad, arguably the most unusual about that, except this time they transform this vision into bricks and mortar. two stained windows designed and Early History of Exeter College, Oxford to be kitchens for student use, the largest significant expansion in Exeter’s 700- are not unpacking on Turl Street, but on One of the challenges presented executed by Edward Burne-Jones coincide with Exeter’s 700th anniversary of which will be the Cairncross Kitchen. year history, will be for everyone. It Walton Street in Jericho. Exeter’s long- by the physical expansion of the College and William Morris, who met as in 2014. Many of his former students have Named in honour of Rector Dame Frances therefore shouldn’t be a surprise that awaited third quadrangle is finally open is the connection of the two sites – how undergraduates at Exeter in the 1850s. chosen to make a donation in his honour Cairncross and her 10 years’ service to the so many people have contributed to its for business. can we link a 21st century building to The stunning windows portray scenes and we hope to reach our £100,000 College (during which time she conceived creation. We hope that even more will Exeter was always clear that its historic Exeter, with its 600-year-old from four biblical parables. They will be target by Christmas. From five-figure the vision for a new campus and oversaw choose to do so as we count down to the new campus had to be much more Palmer’s Tower, 19th century chapel and purchased from a church in north London donors to the recent graduate who gives Cohen Quad’s purchase), it will be a place 2016 grand opening. than a glorified dormitory building or a Jacobean dining hall? One way is by thanks to the gifts of many Exonians £20 a month, everyone is doing their bit, for students to come together, cook and secondary annexe to the main College. Yes, bringing some of Exeter’s creative past and Friends, including six members of at the level they are comfortable with. relax. 135 generous people have given Visit www.exetercohenquad.com additional student accommodation was onto the new campus. The College’s one family in memory of their husband, The first, second and third floors nearly £140,000 to honour Frances and to sign up for regular updates on sorely needed, but so too was teaching, original William Morris rug has been father and grandfather. We hope these of the campus are residential. Each provide this shared space, which to her the construction of Cohen Quad.

52 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 53 The Exeter Family

Why be an Old Member? For the feel good factor, writes Tessa Stanley Price, Deputy Director of Development.

I recently tried to describe my job to a shepherding Exonians who are still talking to friends old confused friend in Spain. I had expected and new, and of all generations, long after the drinks have her questions to centre on fundraising, but been cleared away. they didn’t; she was far more intrigued by We have started to place greater emphasis on the concept of an “alumni community”. She lifelong learning. Many of our alumni gatherings include loved her time at university but, 15 years a lecture, presentation or academic discussion that is on, she certainly doesn’t think about the institution on a designed to challenge. They are, we hope, an opportunity regular basis and was astounded to learn that so many to keep discovering, and to take part once again in Exeter alumni remain engaged with their place of study, rigorous Oxford debate. even decades later. “But why is the College relevant to The philanthropic element is also important, and them now?” she kept asking. not just to Exeter. Opportunities to support the College Her questions made me realise that I often take financially are well documented elsewhere in this for granted Exonians’ strong attachment to their college, publication, but we rarely discuss how giving can benefit and I began to ponder why the bond remains long after the donor. I firmly believe that giving should make you graduation. Why be an Old Member? feel good. Support Exeter, have an impact on the life of a The Exeter “smurfs” and Oxfordshire children enjoy new experiences It is a way to remain in touch with friends, for a student today, and enjoy how it makes you feel! start. We hold contact details for the majority of Exeter Lastly, I like to think that pride is another factor. Every alumni and receive regular requests to be put in touch with time the College publishes superb Finals results, reports "The Bestest Day Ever!" old friends (which we are delighted to do, once we have a promising week on the river, promotes the work of its sought permission). academics, or simply shares a photo of the Fellows’ Garden ExVac gives students and kids a chance to shine beyond Oxford, Being an alumnus of Exeter also offers a way to in full bloom on social media, I hope that Exonians around meet new and like-minded people. Yes, there’s professional the world feel proud that their college is doing well, and reports Rory Sullivan (2012, Literae Humaniores). networking on offer, but there’s also the opportunity simply want to remain imbued with its success. to be part of a welcoming community that believes in To me, these all seem valid reasons to remain part of shared experiences, regardless of when each member was this wonderful institution, and I would be interested to hear This Easter, ExVac returned for two weeks delighted shrieks on the rollercoaster at Legoland, their “up”. Our popular twice-yearly City Drinks events are prime others. It is an enormous privilege to be part of a team that to Woodrow High House near Amersham. concentration whilst making ravioli, and, perhaps above examples, where we have become adept at cheerfully supports the Exeter alumni community. Sixteen Exeter students looked after and all, the children simply playing “it” with the leaders. The provided entertainment for 32 children from children quickly became comfortable talking to us (calling Oxfordshire, and the action-packed holidays us “smurfs” on account of our blue jumpers!), asking us to were hugely enjoyed by all. sit next to them at dinner and trying to get us to reveal the ExVac gives a week’s respite to children who need following day’s activities (we like to keep them a secret). a break from life at home. The holidays provide them with As always, bedtime stories were greatly appreciated, the opportunity to do things they might never have done especially Roald Dahl’s Fantastic Mr Fox. We too enjoyed before; some leave Oxford for the first time, others go on the one activity that sent them to sleep! their first trip to a farm or a theme park. It is often their These holidays require an enormous amount of work. first stay away from home, which can be daunting, but they Many of the ExVac committee members don’t enjoy the relish the experience, running around the centre with their chance to go on the holidays themselves, as priority is given to new friends, developing teamwork through shelter-building, students who have not been on one before, but they still devote and exploring their creative sides at a pottery café. They time to ensuring every holiday is a success. Their fundraising, love the simple things all children love, but which are all organising and financial expertise are invaluable. I am proud to too often missing from their lives. They take home not be part of a college that enables its students to see that Oxford only their fire-kilned mugs, but also, we hope, many happy is broader than its picturesque university bubble. memories of their holiday. All the hard work was proved worthwhile when one My fondest memories include seeing the joy on the beaming boy appeared beside me and declared that day children’s faces whilst feeding animals at Odds Farm, their “the bestest day ever!” Exonians across generations find common ground at an alumni event in the City

54 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 55 The Birth of a Legend

John Garth explores the undergraduate days of JRR Tolkien and the primal experiences that helped shape the creator of Middle-earth.

When you picture JRR At the same time we trace the invention of “Elvish” Tolkien, it’s probably as and of the first Middle-earth hero, Eärendil the star mariner; a member of Oxford’s and we hear of Tolkien’s return to the College as a Somme Inklings, writing The veteran to read aloud his first mythological epic of battle. Hobbit and The Lord I first spoke about Tolkien’s Exeter life at a Tolkien of the Rings in the conference hosted by the College in 2006. In writing 1930s and 1940s, or Tolkien at Exeter College, I enjoyed the amazing support in old age when fame of former Rector Dame Frances Cairncross, who invited caught up with him in me to showcase my work at Founder’s Day and in the 2014 the 1960s. Yet he first City Lecture. It has been a delight to revisit the college wrote about Middle- archives, with the assistance of archivist Penny Baker and earth in 1914–15 while librarian Joanna Bowring, and also to broach Tolkien’s studying at Exeter own College memorabilia at the Bodleian. By the kindness College. My 2003 of the College, the Tolkien Trust, and some hard-core Tolkien as an undergraduate book, Tolkien and the Tolkien collectors, I’ve been able to include a wealth of Great War, started a shift in interest towards the author’s rare archival images – some previously unseen, including a early development. I’ve now returned to focus tightly on 1911 matriculation line-up, a photo of Tolkien haring up the his undergraduate years in Tolkien at Exeter College, rugby pitch, and his own sketches of Exeter College Hall published by the College. and Broad Street. Matt Baldwin in the Development Office So how did Tolkien first strike his lifelong creative has laid it all out beautifully. seam? It’s an unlikely and fascinating tale, involving Beowulf, Tolkien at Exeter College: How an Oxford Hiawatha, the outbreak of war, and – most crucial of all – the Undergraduate Created Middle-earth (64pp) is available College library’s Finnish Grammar. We meet a fresh Tolkien from the lodge and from the Development Office. When – a classicist who nearly failed Mods; a socialite and slacker Exon went to press, it had been named a finalist in the who climbed College walls, “hijacked” a bus, and was arrested prestigious 2015 Mythopoeic Awards for Scholarship (won during a town vs gown confrontation. We see his fortunes by Tolkien and the Great War in 2004). transformed by an extraordinary sensitivity to language and by a yearning to imagine the dim unrecorded past. With the help of a series of diverting sidebars, we John Garth read English at Oxford (1985, also see him in the context of an Oxford that is both St Anne’s) and has worked in journalism familiar and unfamiliar: the Stapeldon Society meetings ever since, including 13 years at the which he recorded in inimitable style as secretary London Evening Standard and the past year (including one prototypical epic of battle between order as web editor of alumni magazine Oxford and chaos); the parties and performances he attended; a Today. He has spoken widely on Tolkien, shocking tragedy on his staircase; the official machinations including a week-long Oxford Summer School for Adults; which allowed him to switch from Classics to English. We and he is about to begin a year’s Fellowship in Humanities meet the friends he gathered in a kind of proto-Inklings, at the Black Mountain Institute of the University of Nevada and we follow them into the Great War. in Las Vegas.

56 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni Invitation to a smoking concert, drawn by Tolkien during his years at Exeter College www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 57 The Problem of Prediction

Adam Ward (2011, PPE) visited 50 of the

BBC Radio Gloucestershire country’s most marginal seats in the run-up to the Bristol West Hustings, Stockton South Wells General Election, meeting the electorate and watching the pollsters get things spectacularly wrong. in fact the changes are indicative Pollsters may of wider transformations in UK party politics. Where once a map 50 for15, a non-partisan election predictions instead of proper want to keep of the runner-up parties was blog I co-founded policy discussion. We therefore focused dominated by the yellow of the with two other Oxford on the key political issues in these a low profile Liberal Democrats, now it is the graduates, followed marginal seats rather than fixating on following their red of Labour and purple of UKIP. our travels to 50 key predictions. This is sure to have ramifications marginal seats across That was perhaps just as well, as blunders at the on how parties position themselves the country ahead of the 2015 General the strongly predicted hung parliament and frame their tactical voting Election. Along the way we interviewed proved in fact to be a small but workable 2015 election. suggestions to voters in the future. candidates, shadowed campaigns, and Conservative majority. The UK’s marked political spoke to the crucial voters who could Despite the UK holding a national divisions along regional lines pose Caroline Lucas MP Alison McGovern MP determine the result of the election. election on 7 May, the results can be well-known, recognition could not stop challenges for the new Many voters we spoke viewed as the summation of a number a Conservative surge. The swathe of government, which intends to felt disengaged with politics of regional elections. The paradigm blue now covering the region markedly to legislate on Scottish because of the constant shift in Scotland was remarkable; of demonstrates Angela Merkel’s reported devolution and English votes debate about polls and the 56 seats now held by the SNP, 36 comment to David Cameron on junior for English laws. were won with over 50% of votes. This coalition partners: “The little party always The regionalised results represented a massacre for Labour, gets smashed!” also pose problems for the “The little which lost 40 of the 41 seats it had held The Midlands saw more success pollsters, who may want to in Scotland. To underline how bad things for the Conservatives; the party not keep a low profile for a while party had become, of the seven SNP seats only defended seats by increasing their following their blunders at the always gets held with a majority of less than 5,000 majority, but also took Telford from Labour. 2015 election. The predicted votes, the Liberal Democrats were On a catastrophic night for swings towards opposition smashed!” runners-up in four, the Conservatives Labour, London was their main solace, parties Labour and UKIP LGBTory parade, Brighton Angela Merkel in one, and Labour only in two (one of where they won Ilford North from the didn’t materialise – or, rather, Chris Law MP which being Na h-Eileanan An Iar, where Conservatives and captured all of their the swing in votes (up 1.5% only 15,938 votes were cast). The sole Liberal Democrat target seats. Indeed, for Labour and 9.5% for Labour seat in this sea of SNP yellow is Labour retained its dominance in UKIP nationally) didn’t translate into Edinburgh South. Labour’s hold here is English metropolises; apart from London the predicted gains in the Commons likely because the SNP candidate was and Bristol, the Conservatives have no (Labour lost 26 seats and UKIP won outed as an internet “troll” shortly before representation in the country’s largest only one seat, retaining Clacton, but the election, creating considerable cities. Reflecting on his party’s election losing Rochester and Strood, both negative press. defeat, David Lammy, the London of which they had originally taken in Election campaign teams Mayoral hopeful, stated that Labour has by-elections in 2014). New methods of suggested to us that a candidate’s “been reduced to a metropolitan party.” extrapolating poll data into meaningful personality and cachet can sway the In a first-past-the-post predictions will therefore need to vote by up to 5%. But in the South system, ruminating on which parties be devised. Indeed, for an accurate West, where many of the incumbent came second across the UK’s 650 prediction, we may as well wait for the Cleethorpes BBC Interview Liberal Democrats were entrenched and constituencies seems unintuitive, but exit poll, or even the final result. Hull North

58 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 59 Unleashing Brain Power Japan Decorates

Matthew Baldwin, Communications Officer, reports on the software Professor Nye that is giving autistic children a personalised path to independence. Leading political scientist Joe Nye (1958, PPE) has received As new technology and gadgets are with points. Brain Power also aims to improve eye contact one of Japan’s highest honours, writes Ben Wilcox (2013, PPE). developed, innovative applications quickly by placing an eye-catching cartoon over the face of the follow. Microsoft’s Xbox Kinect, for example, person speaking, which eventually fades. If eye contact is was created to allow controller-free maintained with the speaker, points are again awarded. Last November, Professor Joseph Nye Technology in the 1970s and chairing computer gaming using hand gestures and As autistic children are not always able to interpret (1958, PPE) was awarded the Order of the the National Intelligence Committee body movements. But from the start it was quirks of expression, Brain Power analyses faces, tone, and Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star by Emperor in the 1990s. Professor Nye obvious the potential applications of this ground-breaking body language to assess emotion. It then helps wearers Akihito of Japan in a ceremony at the often returns to Exeter to meet technology (developed by a former Exeter Fellow in to decode that emotion by displaying emoticons on the Imperial Palace in Tokyo. with students. Most recently he Engineering, Professor Andrew Blake) stretch well beyond Glass; through a subtle nod the children can indicate which The award – one of the highest attended the College’s Social the living room. The Kinect now has uses in boardrooms, emoticon represents the mood of the person with whom decorations the Japanese government bestows – came Sciences Symposium in May 2014 surgeries, and even warzones. they are interacting, winning points if they are correct. in recognition of Professor Nye’s “contribution to the and gave a talk entitled “Is the One such recent advancement in technology is Another use of Brain Power is to monitor autistic development of studies on Japan-US security and to the American Century Over?” at a Rector’s Google Glass, a smartphone-like interface that resembles children’s underlying physiological stress responses, such promotion of the mutual understanding between Japan and Seminar in June 2015. standard eyeglasses, through which wearers communicate as heart and breathing rates, in order to predict meltdowns the United States.” Professor Nye’s recent writing on Japan has with the internet by voice commands and can view images and ultimately reduce stress situations. Alerts are sent to Widely considered one of the preeminent political focused on escalating tensions between China and Japan and text displayed on the Glass’s lenses. It is currently parents and carers, and the children experience soothing scientists of his generation, Professor Nye has authored over disputed islands in the South China Sea, and on efforts being rethought as a mass market product, but is still music and videos, which they can pre-select, to help calm over a dozen books on wide-ranging topics in international by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to enhance Japan’s available to certified partners including Brain Power, the down. Software modules collect these data, which are affairs and diplomacy. He has taught at Harvard University defensive capabilities. He has also addressed the difficult neuro-technology start-up founded by Dr Ned Sahin (1996, analysed to give customised feedback – one application since 1964, and has also held prominent positions in the balancing act faced by United States foreign policy makers, Neuroscience) in Cambridge, Massachusetts. of which is the creation of geographical markers for United States government, including serving as Deputy to the who are striving to build a strong regional alliance with Dr Sahin wanted to apply his neuroscience and environmental triggers, helping both parents and children Undersecretary of State for Security Assistance, Science, and Japan without threatening Chinese interests in the region. technology training to practical challenges that get in the to avoid stressful locations. way of people living fulfilling lives. With Brain Power he is In this way, Brain Power’s tools provide a personalised developing a uniquely suitable tool to tackle autism: a Google path to independence. By enabling children to engage fully Glass-compatible software suite designed to help autistic with their environment, Brain Power’s system helps them children learn to navigate social challenges. benefit from all the exciting opportunities that life holds. From Exeter to Jesus Even everyday situations can be difficult to understand and acutely stressful for people with autism. Brain Power is a Visit www.brain-power.com to follow Dr Sahin’s work Tim Hele (2007, Chemistry) reveals the Exonians taking over Jesus. game-changer. It promotes interaction with the outside world, and show your support. unlike many alternative tablet or smartphone initiatives, encouraging Some years ago, the hedonistic days of about the possibility of intermission to research abroad, to autistic children to engage with my first year as an undergraduate were which he responded that a current Junior Research Fellow other people. It tackles key areas of punctuated by parties thrown by the then had done that. I contacted him, and he replied that he difficulty, such as the improvement Chaplain of Exeter, Helen Orchard, which remembered me from Exeter, six years ago! of communication skills, emotional involved the consumption of large quantities Adam had undertaken a PhD in mathematics at intelligence, and self-regulation, of food and drink, and ended with compline King’s College, Cambridge, then a postdoc in Canada, through the gamification of everyday around 2am. At one of these I met a perspicacious fourth- and joined Jesus in October 2013. situations. year undergraduate by the name of Adam Harper (2004, Adam is not the only Exonian I have the pleasure of Attracting the attention of an Mathematics and Statistics), with whom I discussed (or rather, dining with at high table. There is also the Schroder Professor autistic child can be difficult; when he educated me on) the distribution of prime numbers. of German, Sarah Colvin (1986, Modern Languages), the Brain Power’s software detects Adam then graduated and left Oxford, while I Emeritus Fellow in Law, Peter Glazebrook (Lecturer in Law the child’s name being called, remained at Exeter until 2011 when I moved to Trinity at Exeter from 1958 to 1963), and the acting Chaplain, Nick it redirects his or her attention College, Cambridge, to undertake a PhD [sic] in theoretical Widdows (2001, Engineering). As a pièce de résistance, I with on-screen arrows. If sensors chemistry. In the autumn of 2013 I applied for numerous have been invited to represent Jesus College, Cambridge detect head movement towards research fellowships and, to my great surprise, was offered at the Domus Dinner of our sister college, Jesus College, the noise, the child is rewarded one by the Master of Jesus College, Cambridge. I enquired Oxford. Time to dust off the Exeter cufflinks… Dr Ned Sahin road tests the Glass software

60 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 61 Exonians in Print From a travel guide through London’s past to an exploration of the spoken traditions of Inuit people in north-west Greenland, Exeter’s alumni take readers on a vibrant and varied voyage. .

Six Poets: Hardy to Larkin: An Anthology Indecision Points: George W Bush and Glimpses of Utopia Saxo Grammaticus: The History Alan Bennett (1954, Modern History) the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict George Walker (1960, Chemistry) of the Danes Six Poets: Hardy to Larkin: An Anthology Daniel Zoughbie (2008, International Relations) George Walker has published Glimpses of Peter Fisher (1952, English) is a selection of English verse by Alan Drawing on his own interviews with 45 Utopia: A Lifetime's Education, a collection Peter Fisher has published a translation of Bennett's favourite poets. Including more global leaders, Dr Daniel Zoughbie’s of autobiographical essays in which he Saxo Grammaticus's History of the Danes than 70 poems, and accompanied by his Indecision Points provides the first describes some defining moments in in two parts. Edited by Karsten Friis-Jensen, own enlivening commentary, Mr Bennett comprehensive history of the Bush his distinguished career in education as part one contains the first 10 books of creates profound and witty portraits administration’s attempt to reshape political the director general of the International Saxo's work and part two contains books 11 of Thomas Hardy, AE Housman, John order in a "New Middle East" and examines Baccalaureate and visiting professor in the to 16, covering the myths and heroic tales of Betjeman, WH Auden, Louis MacNeice and the major assumptions underpinning US University of Bath. Among the essays are primitive Scandinavia and the history of the Philip Larkin. foreign policy. reminiscences on his time at Exeter College. first Danish kings.

Nothing But Grass Landmark Essays on Speech and Writing London: A Travel Guide Through Time The Polar North: Ways of Speaking, Will Cohu (1983, English) Peter Elbow (1957, English) Matthew Green (2001, Modern History) Ways of Belonging Nothing But Grass is the critically Peter Elbow, a leading expert on speech Dr Matthew Green guides us through six Stephen Leonard (2004, General Linguistics acclaimed debut novel by Will Cohu. It tells and writing, has edited a selection of classic extraordinary periods in London's thrilling and Comparative Philology) the story of Norman Tanner, a man who essays which show the main streams and vibrant history: medieval city life, the Exeter fellow in Anthropology Dr Stephen thinks he has got away with murder. But he of scholarly thought in this field and ages of Shakespeare, the plague, coffee Leonard set off on a journey to document the hasn't accounted for his victim's girlfriend, or invite readers to think critically about the houses, the reign of Victoria and the Blitz. language and spoken traditions of a small group a child destined to come back to haunt him. relationship between speech and writing. Stepping back in time, he introduces the of Inuit living in a remote corner of north-west mad, bad and dangerous characters of the Greenland. Polar North is a story of a year spent past, all desperate to show you the rich and with a group of people whose ancient way of life EP Thompson and English Radicalism Scratching Around occasionally hazardous past of the world's juxtaposes the modern, consumerist lifestyle that Richard Taylor (1964, PPE) Paul Gittins (1964, English) liveliest city. now pervades every corner of the planet. Alongside Roger Fieldhouse, Richard Taylor A fervent defender of those traditional skills has edited a book on the British historian, of poetry writing that are all too often absent writer, socialist and peace campaigner EP in modern poetry, Paul Gittins’s immediately The Devil's Dance Tourist (EP) Thompson. The collection marks the 50th accessible selection of poetry explores John Symons (1964, Literae Humanoires) Emma Ballantine (2005, English) anniversary of the publication of The Making experiences of everyday life which are filled John Symons’s latest novel is an exciting, Tourist , the latest EP from singer songwriter of the English Working Class, a highly- with beauty and significance, displaying a original story, full of menace and very moving. Emma Ballantine, was launched on 24 July influential work which helped revolutionise tenderness for the passing of time, of love Charmingly illustrated by Tracy Davy, The and went to number 15 in the iTunes charts the study of history. and the difficulties of relationships. Devil’s Dance is told in turn by two teenagers, on the day of release. The lead track, The and explores loss, friendship and family. Love I Seek, was featured as Q Magazine's “Track of the Day”. Stanley, I Resume Under the Radar Stanley Johnson (1959, English) James Hamilton-Paterson (1961, English) Stanley, I Resume, the sequel to the memoir Under the Radar, James Hamilton- Stanley, I Presume, is filled with recollections Paterson's remarkable novel about the lives Photo/illustration credits from the colourful life of the former politician of British pilots at the height of the Cold COVER © Matter&Co © iStock s-cphoto, © iStock MistyVirginia. P6/8/50/53: © Design concepts by Alison Brooks Architects. P10: © Rex. and current poet and adventurer, including War, tells the story of Squadron-Leader P14: © iStock/Craig Dingle. P18: © iStock/pilgrims49, Alamy. P20/21: Illustration and photographs by Max Mulvany. P25: © Casa de S.M. el run-ins with Margaret Thatcher, two ascents Amos McKenna, who is suffering from Rey Spanish Royalhouse. P27: © Erick Lucero. P28: Photographs by John Cairns, © Bodleian Libraries, University of Oxford. P30 ©: iStock/ of Mount Kilimanjaro (one for Exeter College), desires and frustrations that are making him matt_benoit. P32: Photographs courtesy of Cambridge University AFC. P33/34: Alamy. P36: Rex. P38: © iStock matt_benoit. P40: iStock/ and the turbulent rapids of parenthood. question his ultimate loyalties. chatchaisurakram. P42: Rex. P43: Alamy. P44/45: Alamy P46/7: Photos by Dani Machlis, Ben Gurion University. P56: Exeter College Smoker,

Tolkien family papers, Bodleian Library, Oxford. © The Tolkien Trust 2014. P57: Photograph of Tolkien c.1911, Tolkien family papers,

Bodleian Library, Oxford. © The Tolkien Estate Limited 2014. P57: Photograph of John Garth by Joby Sessions .

62 EXON SUMMER 2015 www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni EXON SUMMER 2015 63 EVENT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY 2015 – 2016

WEDNESDAY 9 SEPTEMBER FRIDAY 11 DECEMBER Dinner in Boston Dinner in Sydney

THURSDAY 10 SEPTEMBER MONDAY 14 DECEMBER Lecture and Drinks Reception in New York Dinner in Melbourne

SATURDAY 19 SEPTEMBER FEBRUARY University of Oxford Alumni Weekend: Drinks Reception in Yorkshire Afternoon Tea with the Rector FEBRUARY SATURDAY 19 SEPTEMBER Lessons in Leadership Lecture 1995 – 1999 Gaudy SATURDAY 6 FEBRUARY THURSDAY 24 SEPTEMBER Fortescue (Law) Society Dinner Dinner in Zurich THURSDAY 25 FEBRUARY SUNDAY 11 OCTOBER Exepreneurs Drinks in London (for High Table for 2015 Leavers entrepreneurs)

THURSDAY 22 OCTOBER SATURDAY 27 FEBRUARY Lecture and Dinner in Exeter, Devon Parents’ Dinner

SATURDAY 24 OCTOBER FRIDAY 4 MARCH Chemistry Dinner PPE Dinner

SATURDAY 7 NOVEMBER SATURDAY 9 APRIL War and Peace Symposium Alumni Event in Washington, DC

SATURDAY 7 NOVEMBER MAY Rutter Requiem (choir performance) Drinks Reception in Edinburgh

FRIDAY 13 NOVEMBER SATURDAY 7 MAY Engineering Dinner Amelia Jackson (Legacy) Society Luncheon

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER SATURDAY 28 MAY Winter City Drinks in London 1314 Society Garden Party

SATURDAY 21 NOVEMBER SATURDAY 28 MAY Medical Society Dinner Young Alumni Garden Party

SUNDAY 6 DECEMBER SATURDAY 28 MAY Children’s Christmas Carol Concert Boat Club Dinner

WEDNESDAY 9 DECEMBER JUNE Alumni Lunch in Singapore Summer City Lecture in London

THURSDAY 10 DECEMBER SATURDAY 25 JUNE Drinks Reception in Hong Kong 1975 – 1979 Grand Gaudy

All events, unless otherwise stated, take place at Exeter College. For full details of events and dates as they are confirmed, please see www.exeter.ox.ac.uk/alumni/events. Invitations are typically sent out three months before an event. Event details may be subject to change; we therefore recommend you do not make travel arrangements until the Development Office has confirmed you have a ticket.

THE DEVELOPMENT OFFICE, EXETER COLLEGE, OXFORD, OX1 3DP. TEL: +44 (0) 1865 279620 WWW.EXETER.OX.AC.UK/ALUMNI EMAIL: [email protected]

Exeter College is a Registered Charity Number 1141333